Roscommon People 17th July 2020 by RossiePeople

The BIGGEST readership of ANY Roscommon newspaper! Readership is now 80,000 people every week!

Shop LOCAL Eat LOCAL

Spend LOCAL

www.roscommonpeople.ie ABBEY STREET, ROSCOMMON Tel. (090) 66 34633

advertising@roscommonpeople.ie news@roscommonpeople.ie sport@roscommonpeople.ie

Keep it local!

17 July 2020

The Local Paper iles and athrooms Golf Links Road, Roscommon (090) 66 37620

We are now open

Please follow all HSE Covid-19 Guidelines

Frances’ Finishing Touches

New range of Leatherette in stock New opening hours 12 to 4pm

For orders and enquiries contact Frances on 087 6500931 The Square, Roscommon

Tel.: 090 6626270 or 087 6500931 Email: francesfinishingtouches@gmail.com

VOLUME: 690

Vintners: Reopening delay is a ‘hammer blow’ around the country. “The vast majority of these pubs are small rural outlets run by families who are on first-name terms with their customers and far removed from the crowded venues that concern NPHET.

< PAUL HEALY

The Vintners Federation of Ireland (VFI) has reacted angrily to the Government’s decision to postpone the planned reopening of pubs next Monday. The VFI said the decision is a shocking development that will have “huge ramifications for family-run pubs across Ireland”. Publicans in County Roscommon are coming to terms with the news that they will not now be permitted to reopen until August 10th. Taoiseach Micheál Martin said on Wednesday night that Cabinet has agreed that current health measures on Covid-19 should remain in place until August 10th. VFI Chief Executive táil Padraig Cribben said:Vó“This is a shocking decision and will be a hammer blow to thousands of pubs and their local communities

Publicans are reeling from this news. They did everything asked of them by remaining shut for over four months and our members had a reasonable expectation the sector would reopen next Monday”.

TOMMIE KELLY ELECTRICAL Henry Street, Roscommon.

ROSCOMMON TOWN – 090 6634465

Email: Info@mgfelect.com

Roscommon store now open for business

Tel: 090 6625644

The VFI is now seeking urgent engagement with Government to press the case for a major support package for pubs that will have been closed for five months by the time they are allowed recommence trading.

For all your Electrical, Wiring, Accessories & Lighting Supplies – Industrial – Commercial – Agricultural – Domestic

CASEY’S

www.tommiekelly.ie

090 6634465

€10 Off Red Mills Leader Supreme 12kg Bag Was €39.95

ROSCOMMON

Now Delivering

Roscommon-Galway Constituency

Eugene

Murphy

Like many pubs throughout County Roscommon, Creaton’s Bar, New Street, Ballaghaderreen have been preparing to reopen. Anna and Maria Creaton were photographed on Wednesday afternoon, just before the Government announced that the reopening of pubs next Monday is postponed until August 10th. Picture: Michael McCormack

Contact 090 66 38000

NOW €29.95

Wards Circular Road, Roscommon town Tel. 090 6626172

Real Solutions for Rural Ireland

“I am committed to helping to improve the quality of life for people in rural Ireland which has largely been left behind- we need to build a future where people can live, work and enjoy the many benefits of rural living”

You know us, We’re LOCAL! For all your Home Heating & Fuel Needs

Jason McEvoy: Tel: 087 1888114 Eugene Murphy

Joe McEvoy: Tel. 087 1888115

Matt Devane: No 2: Orla Leyden Tel. 087 1882288 Aidan Casey: Elphin Street, Tel. 087 4006004

Senator

Eugene Murphy

An Ireland for all In the present difficult

Fighting back on behalf of the people of Roscommon/Galway Constituency Offices:

cirumstances, please be Ballinasloe, Market Square, Strokestown, reassured Roscommon Townavailable Co. Galway that I am Co. Roscommon Co. Roscommon Kevin Ireland: at all times if you have any  087 435 3834 Tel. 087 2216127  071 963 3000  090 662 5722 concerns or issues  eugene.murphy@oireachtas.ie

MOBILE: 087 1668775

Working with your local Fianna Fáil team: Cllr Michael Connolly, Cllr John Cummins, Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice, Cllr John Keogh, Cllr Orla Leyden, Cllr Marty McDermott, Cllr Joe Murphy

Finn Electrical

* In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

090 647 8433

www.bccsolicitors.ie

PERSONAL INJURY Contact our dedicated Personal Injury Department in

Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors

Please ring the Constituency Office in advance to make an appointment, tel: 090 66 28479 or email michael.fitzmaurice @oireachtas.ie

Michael Fitzmaurice

Goff Street, Roscommon Tel. 090 66 25573

Large range of Fitbits now in stock

ATH LON E Ι M OATE LANESBOR OU GH Ι GA LWAY

McGUINNESS

Pharmacy

Main Street, Roscommon T. 090 66 26193 F. 090 66 28789

Mob.: 086 1914565 Michael.Fitzmaurice@Oireachtas.ie

Face Tan now in stock

Hynes Pharmacy Castle Street, Roscommon.

Tel. (090) 66 34147

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

NewsPeople

People WATCHING AT H L O N E Ι M O AT E L A N E S B O R O U G H Ι G A LWAY In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate DOLORES*GACQUIN – SOLICITOR fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of Tel: 090 6478433 • info@bccsolicitors.ie any award or settlement

090 647 8433

www.bccsolicitors.ie Agricultural Relief

I am a part-time farmer and I understand that I will inherit my father’s farm after his death. He is quite elderly and in poor health at present. Whilst I will obviously be very grateful for the farm I am very concerned that I may be left with a large tax bill. I believe the farm may be worth around €750,000 at the moment. I understand that the relevant tax date will be the date of my father’s death. Please advise me. At present, a child may inherit up to €335,000 from their parents without being liable for tax. Any inheritance valued in excess of this amount will be taxed at a rate of 33%. This tax is called Capital Acquisitions Tax (CAT) or more commonly inheritance tax or gift tax. However, farmers may qualify for a very valuable relief called Agricultural Relief. If you qualify for the relief then the CAT will be calculated on 10% of the market value of the agricultural property received as a gift or inheritance. You essentially get 90% of the market value of the agricultural property tax free. Example, if you qualify for Agricultural Relief the value of the farm you are scheduled to inherit will no longer be valued at €750,000 for tax purposes. Instead it will be valued at just 10% of its value and you will be considered to have received an inheritance of €75,000 for tax purposes, well below the tax threshold resulting in €0 inheritance tax liability. In order to qualify for this 90% Agricultural Relief you must pass two tests i.e. be a “farmer” and also an “active farmer” as defined by the Revenue Commissioners. The farmer test is a financial test whereby 80% or more of your gross assets, after receiving the agricultural inheritance, must comprise farm assets.

CYCLING ACCIDENT

With WithPAUL PAULHEALY HEALY

It was the best of times, it was the best of

If you were involved in a cycling times… contact Ah,accident I remember it well.

Byrne Carolan Now – finally – we’re going to ‘show our Cunningham Solicitors age’.

Wha’? To the readers. The readers will have an idea what age we are…when we start reminiscing about Big Jack, God be good to him. It’s no secret, the age we are! Ah, I like to keep them guessing… I think they have a fair idea we’re not…the full… Shilling? No, I meant in the full flush of youth… Yeah, I suppose you’re right! But there’s a lot of life left in us yet! Anyways, Jack. We were talking about Big Jack. Ah yes, golden memories. What a sad day Saturday was. Hearing that Jack had passed on. The end of an era…

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

Cup quarter-final! You wouldn’t see it in a Roddy Doyle novel! Actually I think it was referred to in a Roddy Doyle novel…. Okay, okay. And all the emotion, as the people watched on telly and burst into tears…. Dunphy and Giles? No, not them! The fans…the ordinary people of Ireland…sure we went mad! Even Alf was cancelled. Wha’? Didn’t Bill O’Herlihy say that the American comedy – ‘Alf’ – had been cancelled because of the extra-time and penalties? That detail really isn’t important! Mind you, he was great. Yeah, he was funny. Alf had a way with

Giants Stadium! Unreal! Houghton again! A header! No! A super shot! Yeah, I meant… I know, I know. Great times! Great times! We beat Italy! At the World Cup! Revenge for 1990! Yes! No quarter-final this time, but still, great memories!

They were the best of times… Altogether now! ‘We’re all part of Jackie’s Army, we’re all…’ ‘Ole! Ole! Ole!’ ‘Let’s put ‘em under pressure!’ We’re showing our age. Don’t care. We lived through those days. Magical times. All thanks to Jack… I agree. The players were great, the fans were great, I’m sure even the FAI did their bit, we won’t forget the guys who put in the foundations – people like Eoin Hand – but really, it was all thanks to Jack. He made it possible! He lifted the nation! He brought us joy! He even got Alf cancelled. Jack Charlton was a great man. Both: Rest in peace, Jack. Thanks for the memories, thanks for the best of times.

What we liked…

You must also be an active farmer for 6 years after you get the inheritance of agricultural property OR you must lease the land to a person who is an active farmer for the 6 year period. An active farmer is a person with a formal agricultural qualification or if you do not hold one of the formal agricultural qualifications you must spend 50% of your normal working time farming agricultural property.

A radio documentary aired on American network NPR (National Public Radio), which focused on the experience of ‘cocooners’ in County Roscommon during the Covid-19 lockdown – and on the comfort provided by a Roscommon Lions Clubinspired radio show, ‘The Rossie Way’ (RosFM 94.6) – is a terrific production and highly recommended! (See Paul Healy’s Week).

Such criteria applies to a gift or inheritance of agricultural property. May I respectfully suggest that you liaise with your Accountant and secure tax planning advices so as to ensure you are best placed to qualify for agricultural relief in due course.

What we didn’t like…

This column is prepared by Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor. Byrne Carolan Cunningham have offices in Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough and Galway.

Losing Jack: The death of Jack Charlton, who led the Republic of Ireland soccer team to such unprecedented success from 1988 through to ’94, was sad and poignant, evoking for many of us special memories of a great man and a special era in Irish life. A part of our youth has faded further. Thanks for the memories, Jack.

A person should always contact their solicitor to obtain legal advice specific to their own situation. The above column contains general information and cannot be relied upon as legal advice. * In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

Byrne Carolan Cunningham SOLICITORS

Telephone Central Line 090 6478433

What PEOPLE are talking about ...

info@bccsolicitors.ie www.bccsolicitors.ie

Businesses: Reach your target market! 18,000 COPIES PRINTED WEEKLY

(They watch the world go by)

(They stare into space, into the past)

(They sit, socially distancing, on a park bench) Stuttgart, 1988. When Ray put the ball in the England net! A header! Ah he wasn’t the wildest of them, I think Cascarino knew how to party alright… Wha’? You said Ray Houghton was a header… No! He scored with a header! Oh, yeah. Italia ’90. Never will forget it. Packie. That save! Epic. David O’Leary. The man that Jack dropped! O’Leary came back from the wilderness to kick the penalty that put us into the World

him… Not Alf! Bill! Bill O’Herlihy! He was great. He was. Such great times.

PIC OF WEEK: Cllr. Michael Mulligan (right) who is interviewed on page 5 this week, pictured with customer John Hunt in Michael’s premises in Ballaghaderreen on Wednesday.

The lamented death of Jack Charlton; chaos in the new Government arising from the Barry Cowen debacle; the pubs AREN’T reopening on Monday next.

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

Buy Irish… Buy local… at ETL Craft & Giftware JEWELLERY Enibas - award winning jewellery crafted in Kinsale, Co Cork. Alan Ardiff – unique handmade jewellery by Dublin based Mayo man. Juvi – design workshops based in Dublin. Scribble & Stone - designed in Dublin. Newbridge jewellery exclusively endorsed by Amie Huberman. Tipperary Crystal. ART Rita Oates – Roscommon. Black Hen – by artist couple Vida & Andrew Pain based in Ballaghaderreen. Button studio – lovingly created by Jane Walsh in Athlone. Belinda Northcote – Cork. Emma Higgins - Dublin. Fab Cow - Dublin. Rebecca Kahn – Wicklow. Eileen McNulty - Textile Artist based in Co Meath. Sarah McKenna – Ceramic artist, Dundalk Co. Louth. TEXTILES Donegal Design. Aine- Ennis, Co Clare.

GREETING CARDS Rita Oates - Roscommon. Glen Gallery – Sligo. Watermark – Dublin. GIFTWARE Newbridge. Tipperary Crystal – Featuring EOIN OCONNOR Café Range. Genesis Mullingar. Galway Crystal. Irish Handmade Soaps – Slane, Co. Meath . Rowan Beg Design Candles – Galway. Artwood – Drumshanbo, Co. Leitrim. ETL Newgrange. Colm de Ris Pottery – Dublin. Avakado & Co, amusing Irish sayings, based in Co. Clare. Roscommon Sentiment Mugs created inhouse at ETL. Shannonbridge Pottery.

Buy IRISH at

Development & Framing on site at ETL...

Roscommon

MAIN ST, ROSCOMMON TELEPHONE: (090) 66 25117 Email: info@etlgifts.ie Web: www.etlgifts.ie

Buy IRISH at

ETL

Roscommon

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

NewsPeople Only Contractor in the West & Midlands installing BASF Walltite CV 100 Cavity Wall Insulation NOW IN YOUR AREA

- CALL GERRY

086 2705603 OR 090 64 89804 OR EMAIL: warmncosyhomes@gmail.com

Contractor ID: 12234

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE:

l Walltite Spray l Foam Insulation l Attic Insulation

www.warmncosyhomes.ie Complies with New Building Regulations

CONNOLLY CARPETS & FLOORING Pound Street, Ballaghaderreen Telephone: 087 1366482

Supply and installation of Carpets, Vinyl, Laminates and Wood Flooring l

Domestic l Commercial

MASSIVE RANGE TO CHOOSE FROM Available for collection or delivery in 2/3 days

Call-out service also available Over 40 years fitting Contact us and we will call out with samples experience in the trade

Martina’s Fashions

“The biggest blight on the business landscape here in Ballaghaderreen has been the closure of Durkin’s Bar, Restaurant and Guesthouse. It’s a big blow and please God someone will take it over as a hotel very soon because that’s something that’s lacking in this region” – Michael Mulligan. Picture: Mick McCormack.

Men’s Shed makes presentation to Garda hero’s family < DAN DOONER

Ballaghaderreen Men’s Shed made a presentation on Tuesday to the family of Detective Colm Horkan, a Ballaghaderreen-based member of An Garda Síochána, who was shot dead while on duty in Castlerea last month. Chairperson of Ballaghaderreen Men’s Shed, Pat Towey, said the group wanted to acknowledge the long-standing support afforded to the group by Detective Horkan and his colleagues.

“Ballaghaderreen Men’s Shed was proud to make a presentation to the family of Detective Colm Horkan. There was a great turnout for the event including Garda representatives from Ballaghaderreen and Castlerea, Colm Horkan’s family and the new Superintendent, Tom Colsh. “The men wanted to acknowledge Detective Horkan’s contribution to the group and his work in the community and to tell his family and his colleagues in An Garda Síochána that they will always have our support,” he said.

Ballygar, Co. Galway. Tel.: (090) 66 24561

LET THE SUNSHINE INTO YOUR HOME

Mother of the Bride Outfits

• Variety of accessories • Catering from sizes 10-24 • Hats and fascinators for hire • Selection of kiddies-wear also in stock • Communion, Confirmations and family events IDEAL FOR ALL OCCASIONS Gift Vouchers Available (Image for illustration purpose only)

NEW GIFTWARE SELECTION of Galway Living Crystal; Handmade Paintings, Jewellery, Scarves, etc...

Balloons for birthdays and all occasions Businesses: Reach your target market! 18,000 COPIES PRINTED WEEKLY

The Ballaghaderreen Men’s Shed was recently nominated by Roscommon County Council for an All-Ireland Pride of Place award for its work in the community. “As part of the men’s shed you stand shoulder to shoulder with the man beside you as well as other members of the community. It was in that spirit that we wanted to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of Detective Horkan and his colleagues in our community,” Mr. Towey added.

Create more light In your home

with our Lift and Slide Patio Doors in Aluminium, PVC and Hardwood - Extensive range of Roof Lights also available. Contact us today on 090 6626753 / 01 4626671 Social distancing and hand hygiene standards apply in our showrooms for your safety

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

NewsPeople

Ballaghaderreen is open for business! Irish Times journalist Niamh Towey on returning home during lockdown: Page 13 < DAN DOONER

The town of Ballaghaderreen has suffered its fair share of financial blows in the recent past. The global recession of 2008 was followed by the opening of the N5 bypass in 2014, which steered further traffic away from the town. Lockdown has been another major challenge for local businesses, but they are once again preparing to get back on their feet. Local Sinn Féin Councillor Michael Mulligan says he can see some light at the end of the tunnel. “I run a small hardware shop here and we had to close for seven weeks. I’m delighted to be back in work again and thankfully it has been busy so far. Getting enough paint in to meet demand has been the biggest challenge with people using this as an opportunity to do some home improvement.

Michael Mulligan pictured in Ballaghaderreen earlier this week. Picture: Mick McCormack.

thing that’s lacking in this region. “On the positive side, most of the businesses in Ballaghaderreen are now back open, and there is even one new business after opening up here as well. Things did look bad at the

beginning of all this but it was brilliant the way the local people handled the lockdown,” he said. Cllr. Mulligan said he was hopeful that life could return to some sort of normality over the next few weeks.

“The biggest thing I’ve missed in the last few weeks is the football. I’ve watched the Mayo and Dublin matches a load of times and Mayo still haven’t won! I’ve also seen every John Wayne movie going and he never seems to run out of bullets!” Local businessman and Chairperson of the Ballaghaderreen Men’s Shed, Pat Towey, says the older generations have found dealing with the uncertainty around Covid-19 and lockdown difficult. “The men’s shed still isn’t open but we meet every Tuesday evening in the various parishes and we go for walks. There is still a fear among the older generations, a fear of the unknown and of mixing with people. I think people are still a bit nervous. In order to keep members safe we meet outdoors, sanitise our hands and sign a contact tracing sheet,” he said. In terms of local business, Pat admits there are huge challenges to overcome but is hopeful that once again, businesses in Ballaghaderreen will be able to rise to the challenge. “I own a shop and petrol

station and we were very busy during lockdown and still are, thank God. The town needs every business to reopen to provide as many options and services as possible to attract people to Ballaghaderreen. The Government needs to think about how they can help some of the smaller

businesses to reopen – it’s a huge challenge. “Hopefully everyone gets a chance to reopen in the coming weeks because businesses have to pay rates and you have to support the loyal staff that have stood by you during this period of uncertainty,” he concluded.

KILGARRIFF Funeral Directors

Market Street, Ballaghaderreen

Tel: 094 9860069 (24-hours) Email: info@funeralcare.ie Web: www.funeralcare.ie

Excellence in Funeral Care

Your 1st Stop Shop for all your Back to School needs!

Crayola 24s Twistable Crayons Premier Refill Pads pk 5 Ormond Copies 10pk 88 Page Ormond Copies 10pk 120 Page Pritt Stick 2pk 43g Pritt Stick 3pk 22g Button Wallet 5pk Assorted First Class Office A4 Hardback Pads 5pk Premier A4 Hardback 3pk

€6.99 €4.00 €3.00 €3.99 €4.00 €4.99 €2.00 €8.00 €5.00

Dublin Road, Ballaghaderreen, Roscommon • Tel. 0 94 9861116 • E-mail: toweys.sparexpress@gmail.com

Everything you need under the tree at Spar! • ATM • Deli Counter. Full Off-Licence. Check out great instore offers: €13.00 for either Guinness 8pk., Carlsberg 8pk., Budweiser 8pk., Bulmers 8pk. – While stocks last – offers for 16th July only.

Fully stocked with Primary and Secondary School books for Back to School

of assle out Take the H o ol, drop in h Back to Sc he list an d t or email the rest! we w ill do

/ Email: info@firstclassoffice.ie

• 24 Hour OPT pump for all your fuelling needs

– Pay with credit / debit or fuel card

• Kerosene. MGO White Diesel. • Designated DCI site. • Proud to be part of the community • Follow us on FB and Instagram • Watch out for our big fuel Promotion

thanks A sincere l to my loya s Customer and Staff

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

Recently… I was mowing the lawn recently when a friend I hadn’t seen in a long time drove up. He had a welcome gift. It’s a few years since Strokestown native Mike Lennon (the visitor in question) told me about a project he was working on ‘behind the scenes’. I’ve known Mike for over 20 years. We worked closely together on the annual Roscommon Yearbook (later ‘Roscommon Life’) and on other publications. He’s always working on a project (or so it seems). Mike, a passionate Roscommon man, is extremely generous with his time, utterly meticulous in his research. The writing projects he gets involved in are all welcome and valued additions to the body of work which exists on Roscommon-related issues. Now Mike has excelled himself. The gift he had for our household was an advance copy of his new book. His gift for us is also a gift to this county, and to future generations (but you can get your own copy!). His ‘Dictionary of Roscommon Biography’ is an extraordinary publication. Basically it’s a collection of biographies of deceased prominent Roscommon people/ people who had significant careers in Roscommon. There are 5,000 individual entries in a book which spans over 900 pages. It’s a breathtaking publishing achievement, the result of phenomenal research by Mike over many, many years. The book will be a brilliant resource for people for decades to come. Congratulations, Mike! (A launch will be held later this year; further details in forthcoming issues).

Friday It can be fascinating to hear (or see) how others view us! In this instance, the ‘others’ are the good people of the renowned American network NPR (National Public Radio). NPR recently produced a docu-

Status Quo were…eh…very merry. Bono was a pain, Bowie was super, and Freddie Mercury was simply sensational. What Geldof (now Sir Bob) achieved was amazing. Nice that he was knighted, but it’s a pity that Jack Charlton – oddly – never received that honour.

All weekend

Boating on Lough Gara recently. Picture: Michael McCormack

mentary (called ‘Hello, Neighbour’) which focuses on the Meitheal-like response in Roscommon during the Covid-19 lockdown. The documentary, a very impressive production, concentrates on how the local community rallied to help the over-70s, that section of our society who abruptly found themselves labelled as ‘cocooners’ when requested by the Government not to leave their own homes. When NPR heard of the response in Roscommon – and of the emergence of a radio programme specifically aimed at the cocooners – they saw the potential for a documentary. NPR explained to its vast listenership across America: “People over the age of 70 were considered ‘extremely vulnerable’. They were asked to ‘cocoon’ in their own homes, not to leave for any reason – no shopping for food or even taking a walk. In County Roscommon, with one of the oldest populations in Ireland and the highest percentage of people over 80, neighbours leapt into action, self-organising an all-out effort to keep the ‘cocooned’ following the rules and comfortable at home”. NPR explained that the outpouring

of good neighbourliness went beyond delivering meals and doing people’s shopping – while also creating some unexpected consequences. “Neighbours took care of people’s ponies and their cars, brought them salmon cutlets and bouquets of cherry blossoms. Whatever it took to keep the cocooned happy and indoors. “But for many independent older people, used to their freedom and privacy, this kind-hearted but determined takeover of their lives was unsettling. Did everyone suddenly see them as elderly? As vulnerable? And how could they ever return these many favours?” The documentary highlights a Roscommon Lions Club initiative which led to the creation of ‘The Rossie Way’, a daily programme on RosFM. This programme, presented by Seamus Duke and Dan Dooner, which was aimed at ‘cocooners’, had a positive lifestyle focus, with as little mention of Covid-19 as possible! ‘Hello, Neighbour’ features some excellent, thoughtful contributions from Roscommon Lions Club members and local ‘cocooners’. It’s a beautifullymade documentary and it certainly is an eye-opener in terms of how ‘others’

view our county, our people and our way of life! (It’s all positive). * You can hear the programme in full if you go to the NPR website.

Saturday A documentary on Live Aid (BBC Four) was an engrossing programme, a nostalgic revisiting of an extraordinary day in 1985 when star-studded simultaneous concerts were held in England and America in aid of the faminestricken in Ethiopia. Live Aid was the brainchild of the great Bob Geldof, one of a number of contributors to a highly entertaining two-part series. This was a repeat, and sadly some of the contributors, including David Bowie, are no longer around. The programme brought us back to an epic day when some of the world’s top acts were persuaded by Geldof to sign up to the ambitious (and ultimately very successful) project. It was poignant to see Billy Connolly, prominent both in ’85 and in this documentary, but now sadly a very ill man. Midge Ure was a humorous contributor (now). As for the flashbacks to ’85, it was obvious (now) that the lads from

News on Saturday of the passing of Jack Charlton led to an outpouring of emotional tributes across Ireland and the UK. The former Leeds United and England footballer became an honorary Irishman due to his achievements as Republic of Ireland manager and the immense bond between Charlton and the Irish people. The Roscommon People has tributes from Seamus Duke (page 16) and Frank Brandon (page 20). Meanwhile, the Barstool Boyos, who have been dealt a blow by the news that the pubs won’t after all be reopening on Monday, muse on Jack’s impact and legacy (page 2). And on page 35, Big Jack is the subject of my ‘Heroes’ series. Thanks for the magical memories, Jack. This nation loved you. Rest in peace.

All week As we go to press, it’s all happening on the political front. Last night, Taoiseach Micheál Martin sacked Agriculture Minister Barry Cowen. Today, Dara Calleary was appointed as new Agriculture Minister. Meanwhile, news too (see page 1) that the Government has decided to defer the reopening of pubs and nightclubs (which was meant to take effect next Monday) to the 10th of August. And, going back to the Cowen saga, the most used phrase amongst politicians/political hacks over the past 24 hours has been: “What changed between 2 pm and 8 pm on Tuesday?” It’s been a breathless, old-style return to power…by FF!

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

NewsPeople

McHugh’s Exciting new chapter Wholesale for Roscommon writer! Main Street, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon Tel. 094 98 60092

LANESBORO TRAINING CENTRE FORKLIFT M.E.W.P. Working at height Manual Handling etc.

Contact Vincent 086 8154938

Roscommon writer Amy Barry has been selected by Words Ireland to receive professional literary mentoring over the next eight months from an acclaimed Irish writer of their choice. For the second year, Roscommon Arts Centre funded the literary mentorship along with the Arts Council of Ireland. Their support ensures that the chosen mentee receives this potentially life-changing support for free. It is also an investment in the long-term literary reputation of the region. Amy Barry is a poet and author of short stories. Her work has been published in anthologies, journals, and press and e-zines globally. Her poems have been translated into many languages including Irish and Italian. Her awards include both 1st and 2nd prize in the English Poetry at PAU World Poetry Day in 2017 and 2018. She was the recipient of Neruda Award 2017 (Poetry) Crispiano, Italy and was Highly Commended in the Francis Ledwidge

Award 2019. She has also featured in the RTE Radio One Extra in Reverberations Series 2, Nov.2019. After a national call out, a total of 24 writers were selected from 250 applicants. The mentoring process involves four two-hour meetings between the selected ‘mentee’ and their chosen professional writer. The mentor reads up to 10,000 words of the awarded mentee’s writing in advance of each, and then shares their hard-earned critical feedback and advice. The hope is that the chosen mentees will go on to write great works of literature to match or beat the quality of their mentors. It’s a form of peer-to-peer teaching that is increasingly popular across all sectors of Irish life – in industry as well as the arts. The National Mentoring Programme is run by Words Ireland and consists of a grouping of seven national literature resource organisations aimed at supporting writers and developing new audiences for literature.

1 Roscommon writer Amy Barry who has been selected by Words Ireland to receive professional literary mentoring from an acclaimed Irish writer of her choice.

TOWEY’S

Main Street, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon

Telephone: (094) 98 60076 Thank you to our customers for their loyal support and our staff for their loyalty and hard work - keep safe! • Newsagents • High-class confectionary • Fresh Fruit & Vegetables Daily • Grocery and Fruiterer • Tabacconist • Petrol • Oils • Briquettes • Coal Supplies

Seamus Croghan Groundwork and Concrete Specialist SPECIALISING IN THE FOLLOWING

l Civil Engineering l Site Clearance & Site Layout l Raft and Strip Foundations

l Pipework and Septic Tank insulation to E.P.A. standards. l Brick & Block paving and Kerbing

086 8720720

Phone: email: seamuscroghan58@hotmail.com

Free Quotations and Advice offered

Padraig Kelly –– Solicitors ––

Farnbeg, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Office: 071 9633666 – Mobile: 086 2588521 Email: info@pksolrs.ie

Best wishes to all businesses in Strokestown

Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice and Market FRESH Main Street, Castlerea. Tel. 087 2299980

Please support your local shops and keep the lights on in your town!

Pictured at the recent commemoration ceremony at Shannon’s Cross, Loughglynn, Co. Roscommon for Garda Henry Byrne and Detective Garda John Morley were (left to right) Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice, Cllr. Laurence Fallon (Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council) and RTE Midlands Correspondent, Ciaran Mullooly. Picture: Michael McCormack

Naughten calls for €15k Regional Home Regeneration Grant First-time buyers who purchase an existing property in a town or village with a significant residential vacancy rate should be eligible to receive a grant of €15,000, Denis Naughten has told the Dáil. Speaking on a motion regarding affordable housing, he proposed that “the grant be available to offset against their mortgage deposit requirement”. “Conservatively, there are more than 50,000 vacant houses throughout the country and the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government is happy to fork out €30,714 to provide a new serviced site,” stated Denis Naughten. “The reality is that there are quite a number of rural villages around Ireland that have access to 1,000 Mbps high-speed broadband and that also have vacant houses while struggling to maintain student numbers in local primary schools. “Surely it would make sense to spend just half of this €30,000 to bring life back into vacant homes while taking some of the pressure off the housing, road and water infrastructure in Dublin and our other cities,” concluded Denis Naughten.

We can create a Financial Plan for your Protection and your Budget • By considering your current Personal and Financial situation • Developing a Plan to suit your needs and budget • Reviewing your Plan into the future as your commitments and goals change

TELEPHONE: 0719633174 Email: info@mannioninsurance.ie Jim Mannion (Insurances) Ltd T/A as Mannion Insurances is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

NewsPeople Episode One

Available to listen on Sound Cloud and on roscommonpeople.ie

newsbriefs Call for artists (all art forms) Roscommon County Council Arts Office and Roscommon Arts Centre have announced that they will create a new Artist Panel for 2020-2021. Artists and practitioners across all art forms who are wishing to work in Arts Participation contexts (including Arts & Education, Arts & Health, Arts & Disability, Arts & Older People, Arts & Cultural Diversity, and Arts & Communities), are invited to apply. There will be two categories – experienced artists and emerging artists. All artists on the panel will be contacted by Roscommon County Council to submit proposals for arts participation programmes as they arise during 2020-2021. (Full details of how to apply for inclusion on the panel are available at www.roscommoncoco.ie).

Fundraiser to boost Castlerea centre Castlerea Community and Family Resource Centre has been chosen as one of the 10 charities to benefit from the Arcadia 5KFOR50K walk, run or cycle series. This event is starting on the 17th of July and will run for a consecutive five weeks. We are asking everyone to get involved and complete one 5k once a week and donate via the GoFundMe page. For further information, please contact Aisling on 086 4615537 or go to the Castlerea Community and Family Resource Centre Facebook page.

Castlerea Musical Society postpones ‘The Addams Family’ In these uncertain times, with the ongoing uncertainty as to when theatres will be able to reopen due to Covid-19, the committee of Castlerea Musical Society has decided to postpone its 2020 production of ‘The Addams family’. In a statement, Castlerea Musical Society said: The health and safety of our society members, cast, crew, production team, patrons, and the wider community is of the utmost importance to us. Consequently we have decided that postponing our show until April 2021 is the best decision for everyone involved. “We would like to thank everyone for the understanding and support they have shown during these difficult times, especially our fantastic sponsors. We hope to see you all in the near future. In the meantime, stay safe and support local”.

Kilteevan Tidy Towns hosts belated Spring Clean! Kilteevan Tidy Towns’ belated Spring Clean is set to take place on Saturday, July 25th, at 10 am. Please gather at Kilteevan Community Centre for the historical photograph. Please bring your own gloves. Social distancing will apply. We are appealing to all Tidy Towns members and everyone in the community to come along and help us.

Paul Healy speaks to Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan about his life and times

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

NewsPeople

HORAN’S RESTAURANT Racecourse Rd., Roscommon Town

For great homecooked food you can’t beat Horan’s family run restaurant.

We put our food first

Outside catering a speciality, contract sandwiches, wraps, office catering, etc. Great Weekend Breakfast Menu including pancakes, omelettes, full Irish, etc.

SUNDAY LUNCH to include 7oz Steak Burgers, Stir frys and our very popular Fresh Cod with Homemade Tartare Sauce

Call John on 090 6626380 or 086 8538519 With over 30 years’ experience, Aengus Oates Financial Services provides expert financial advice and bespoke financial solutions to our highly valued clients

Aengus Oates Financial Services Plan your future today

Tel. (090) 6627878. Mobile (086) 2573358

info@oates.ie • www.oatesfinancialservices.ie

For a confidential chat, ring Aengus on (086) 2573358

The beautiful Strokestown Park House.

‘Business has been bubbling in Strokestown’ < DAN DOONER

ROSCOMMON Driving School Ballintubber

087 2295551

Welcome back to all our customers!

Appointments any time and walk ins on Fridays Please call Helen 087 6833053

Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

TIME TO GET PREPARED FOR YOUR DRIVING TEST DATE!

The reopening of the Percy French Hotel and the local Bank of Ireland (the latter on a limited basis) has been a major relief to business people and residents alike in Strokestown. The spotlight now moves onto the local pubs in the hope that a successful relaunch of premises’ will lead to further recovery among other local businesses. Shane Lynskey, local solicitor and Chairperson of Strokestown Town Team, says that a certain level of commerce was maintained in the town throughout lockdown. “Businesses in Strokestown bubbled along under the surface during lockdown. Some shops closed as well as local pubs and the Percy French Hotel, which was a serious matter of concern for the town. “Local grocers and food shops, butchers and chemists remained open, which was good. However, the Bank of Ireland closed during lockdown and there were fears that it wouldn’t reopen. Thankfully it has reopened in a limited capacity because it was a great handicap for local business people who had to travel to Roscommon and other places to do their over the counter banking,” he said. The financial forecast may still be uncertain in some areas but Shane remains hopeful that things will pick up. “Looking ahead, the pubs have yet to reopen and so it will be interesting to see how social distancing will work. It’s very difficult for local businesses to plan ahead. People have had to be very inventive in how

they run their businesses in the presence of this invisible enemy. Things may not return to normal in the near future but we have to remain positive and optimistic,” he said. Danny Compton owns a local laundrette and dry cleaners and he is also a member of both the Strokestown Traders’ Association and Town Team. He has seen some tangible improvements in recent weeks. “There has certainly been an increase in footfall in Strokestown since the effects of lockdown started to take hold around the 12th of March. We would have felt the impact from St. Patrick’s Weekend as we would normally have had linen and table cloths from B&Bs and guesthouses. We were down to about 15% turnover from then because they had closed their doors. “We stayed working behind closed doors as we have a local nursing home (on our books). We put a bell on the front door and worked in behind the counter but we found that very few people were calling into the shop during that time anyway because they were adhering to the lockdown. “Things started to improve in the second week in May and now we are back up to around 60% turnover. We’ll get there and if the pubs reopen and things go well there then we may even return to 80% turnover. That would be welcome of course but keep in mind that at this time of year we would expect to be at 105%. The restaurants have been badly hit and there are no big parties during what should be our peak season. “Like most businesses in small towns, we will have to diversify and that means hotel

linen and services like that. I think if the pubs reopen with the roller towel systems and mats etc. it will bring in another 20% in the next few weeks,” he said. While it has undoubtedly been a frustrating period for many local businesses, Danny said it would be unfair to be too critical of the Government in its handling of the crisis. “We have a new government and this is something that we haven’t gone through before so I don’t think they could have done much more. The government are also handcuffed in a way by the World Health Organisation and by current guidelines. “I’ve been in business for 23 years and I’ve never seen anything like this. It has affected every business and every country so we’re all sailing in the one boat. But things are getting better: there are boats back on the Shannon, which isn’t too far from here, and Air B&Bs believe they’ll be very busy in the coming weeks with ‘staycations’. “All in all, if the pubs can reopen and with staycations and restaurants getting into gear then we could see turnover back up around 80%, which wouldn’t be too bad,” he said. The green shoots of recovery can also be seen just down the road in Strokestown Park House. The highly successful local tourist attraction has also reopened, albeit on a restricted basis for the time being. The Walled Gardens and National Famine Museum are open from Wednesday to Sunday while the popular café is offering a takeaway service. And while the house itself remains closed for the time being, the parklands surrounding it are open throughout the week.

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

NewsPeople Who’s saying what on Tweet Street ... Paul Healy’s take on top tweets!

ALL ABOUT JACK… Micheál Martin @MichealMartinTD So saddened to hear of the passing of Jack Charlton who brought such honesty and joy to the football world. He personified a golden era in Irish football, the Italia 90 campaign being one of pure joy for the nation. He gave us magical memories. Thank you Jack – Despite having eh…other things on his mind, the Taoiseach summed up the legacy Jack Charlton leaves Leo Varadkar @LeoVaradkar All of Ireland is sad to hear of the passing of Jack Charlton. He lifted the nation and gave us some truly incredible memories through those wonderful summers of 88, 90 and 94. #ThankyouJack – The former Taoiseach paid tribute too chris o’dowd @BigBoyler The songs you squeezed from us. The hope. The utter joy. Thank you big man. We needed that. Rest well. When all is said and done, you absolutely,

positively, gave it a lash – ‘The songs you squeezed from us’ – our man in Boyle (& Hollywood) remembers the ‘Give it a lash Jack’ and ‘Put ‘em under pressure’ days Mike Scott @MickPuck I was in a Dublin pub the afternoon Ireland went out of the 1990 world cup. Nobody minded. They were all celebrating. Dancing on the chairs, singing in complete joy and abandonment. I’ve never seen so much happiness. Big Jack helped make that – Our man in The Waterboys had a nice memory Archdiocese Dublin @DublinDiocese Thanks for all the joyful days you gave us Jack. Rest In Peace. #jackcharlton – Even the Church tweeted on Jack’s passing

Caitriona Balfe @caitrionambalfe Felt like he was Ireland’s dad in the 90’s ... made us all feel like our little country had a rightful place on the world stage of football. What a man. #jackiesarmy #JackCharlton #putemunderpressure – He WAS a father figure to the nation, thank you Jack for the magic memories. Rest in peace

AND JUST A BIT OF POLITICS… Margaret.O’Gorman @MargaretOGorm12 I knew we were going to have a revolving Taoiseach. A revolving Cabinet as well? Too much excitement for 2020 – ‘Cowengate’ moved up a gear when the Taoiseach dramatically sacked the Minister for Agriculture Brian Cowen (picttured below), on Monday night. Chaos ensued (and social media went into the proverbial meltdown)…

ProfJohnCrown @ProfJohnCrown Who else’s death but #JackCharlton’s would be simultaneous top story on both English and Irish news, in recognition of wholly separate achievements and huge affection in the two countries? – A good point from an eminently sensible man

WE ARE OPEN AND LENDING Ballaghaderreen & District Credit Union Limited. Main Street, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon. Tel. 094-9860522 Email: info@ballaghcu.com • Website: www.ballaghcu.com

Car Loan Rate 6.5% *

Representative Example as at 13/07/2020 €10,000 loan repayable over 60 months 60 monthly payments of €195.67 Total interest €1,740.13 Rate of interest 6.50% p.a. variable; Representative 6.70% APR Total Amount Payable is €11,740.13

Members can now complete the on line loan application form and upload required documentation. Please visit our website: wwwballaghcu.com Ballaghaderreen & District Credit Union Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. *Terms & conditions apply

Toddler and father found safe and well Gardaí have confirmed that they have located 23-month-old Jasmine Arshad and her father, Arshad Shiraz (38), and that both are safe and well. Both Jasmine and Arshad went missing from their home in Ballaghaderreen on Friday, 3rd of July 2020. An Garda Síochána said that the father and daughter have now been located and are safe. Gardaí would like to thank the public and the media for their assistance in this matter.

Percy French Hotel Strokestown • 071 - 9633300

WORKING HARD FOR YOU

Food served daily from 9am to 8pm

CLAIRE

KERRANE TD

Main  :Street, 087Ballaghaderreen. 194 5254 Tel. 094 9861688

 : claire.kerrane@oireachtas.ie

KEEP UP TO DATE ON

Looking forward to welcoming you back!

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

The

D News page

Covid-19: How local communities have responded How ICA ‘faced up’ to community needs As for all other local organisations, Covid-19 brought a sudden halt to activities in the ICA. Roscommon Town members had to cease meetings, reading groups, walks, swimming, outings, etc. Behind the scenes however, they were very busy! At the start of the pandemic there was great emphasis on hand sanitisers and face masks. Both items were very hard to source, and so – as reported at the time in the Roscommon People – the Roscommon ICA ladies started a project to make hand-sewn face masks. All members were involved in the project, either by sewing the masks or by generous contributions towards the materials. Any difficulty in sourcing materials was facilitated by Frances’ Finishing Touches and to date they have provided hundreds of face masks free to hospitals and care homes including Tallaght Hospital, Sacred Heart Hospital, Fearna Nursing Home, Cloverhill Nursing Home, Plunkett Home, and also to frontline workers in the community. Meanwhile, ICA members from all over the county have been taking part in a project called ‘Sew Scrubs for Ireland’, an initiative started by Sinead Lawlor who has a background in costume making for the theatre. Her team arranges for kits which include cut-out fabric and instructions to come to each volunteer, and the finished articles are then donated to frontline workers in hospitals and nursing homes.

Guilds from Boyle, Drumboylan, Frenchpark, Castlerea, Roscommon, Knockcroghery and Moore have been involved and the scrubs were handed over to Roscommon University Hospital on Friday, 5th of June. The project was facilitated by Roscommon Community Gardaí who helped distribute the kits and the delivery to R.U.H. Funding for this project comes from ‘Go Fund Me’, a €4000 contribution from ICA Headquarters and donations from Roscommon Guilds and members.

Helen Farrelly (Castlerea Guild), busy sewing.

Eilish Daly delivering ‘scrubs’ to Roscommon Garda Station.

Cathrina O’Brien (Roscommon Guild) busy sewing ‘scrubs’.

Pictured are Roscommon ICA members who sewed face masks.

Meals on Wheels project in Castlerea a vital help to vulnerable during pandemic An Chistin’s Meals on Wheels project in Castlerea was started as a community response to the Covid-19 pandemic. As government lockdown procedures began taking effect in March 2020, it became clear that the more vulnerable members of the local community were going to need help to protect themselves from the virus. Harmac Medical stepped in with an initial large cash donation to An Chistin, which enabled it to transform from its usual business of training chefs as a Cookery School to becoming a Community Kitchen, preparing and delivering up to 100 meals a day, on a seven day a week basis, covering a 15-mile radius of Castlerea Town. Those receiving meals were the

elderly, those cocooning and vulnerable individuals who had underlying health issues, as these people are most at risk. It was also made possible by the continued support of dedicated local volunteers in the kitchen and making the deliveries. The staff at An Chistin are overwhelmed with how supportive the local community has been at this difficult time. The responses to their social media updates on the project, as well as the feedback they are getting on a daily basis from members of the public, has been so touching. It has been great to see the fantastic community spirit of Castlerea individuals and businesses all pulling together to protect the vulnerable in our community.

Pictured is Kathleen Rourke, Coordinator of An Chistin Meals on Wheels project, Castlerea, receiving a sponsorship cheque from Thomas Flood, Manager of Permanent TSB, Roscommon Town, in support of the programme.

Meals on Wheels chefs and drivers pictured outside the Hub in Castlerea.

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

NewsPeople

A sign of the Times: Niamh on working from home Irish Times journalist and Ballaghaderreen native, Niamh Towey, moved back to Roscommon during lockdown and found a new appreciation for her home town. Here she shares her experience of remote working during lockdown… Coronavirus has brought me equal amounts of fear, loss, hope and excitement. Working from home in Roscommon for The Irish Times was a distant dream before the pandemic hit – an intangible concept, something which I was afraid to hope for because of the inevitable disappointment I felt I would face. Now, I have hope. I have lived in Roscommon while working completely remotely for the last four months now. I have seen the trees which line The Avenue (*my avenue) in Ballaghaderreen go from bare to green, I’ve seen my family most days and my school friends when the lockdown lifted. I have had a break from extortionate rent, the buzz and hum of city life, the nighttime glow of streetlights. I go to the bread van (Dun Bakery) in Ballaghaderreen every Friday, I shop in Padraig Mulligan’s for paint and chat about potato blight remedies with Michael. The middle aisle in Lidl, Castlerea is my new Grafton Street, the post woman Mary is my weekly gift giver. I’ve jumped into Lough Key on easy evenings after work, walked with my next-door neighbour and lifelong best friend on our lunchbreak. Before, we met at the CHQ in Dublin’s IFSC. Recently my boyfriend and I moved into my Grandad’s old house in Redridge, Derrinacartha, and that has given me a whole new sense of perspective. Grandad has been in town now for

a few years, but he has left the place immaculate. I painted the walls and put throws on the couches, aired out the wardrobes and lit the range, trying to give it a woman’s touch. But as I sit here at the kitchen table looking out onto the road, I can’t help but think my Granny Kathleen was the real Queen of this castle, and I am a poor substitute for the woman we loved and miss so much. I think of her every day I am here and I feel closer to her now than I have in years. The lockdown has given me these unexpected joys, but also an anxiety that can be hard to shake some days. I worry about my job security, about the house we are buying in Dublin. I am nervous about my Grandad, and my parents; hoping they are being cautious but also that they don’t worry too much. It upsets me to think about people who can’t be with those they love, and the ritual of grief which some people close to me have been robbed of. I am sad for my siblings and the time they have lost with their friends in college; I miss my aunts and uncles and the mayhem their visits bring. Mostly, though, I worry about whether I’ll ever see the beer garden in Gings in Carrick-on-Shannon again. Although Roscommon has been a revelation these last few months, I am beginning to miss Dublin’s variety, its endless selection of restaurants, pubs, concerts and museums. I miss my work colleagues and the sanctuary the office gave us on hard days. I want to walk around the city’s streets and meet my friends there who inspire me and keep me ambitious. Coronavirus has given me a lot of anxiety, worry for the future and upset over what has been lost to it. Equally, though, it has given me hope that my life might not have to be lived in one place – coronavirus might just have given me the best of both.

Irish Times journalist, Niamh Towey, pictured at home in Ballaghaderreen earlier this week. Picture: Mick McCormack.

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

NewsPeople

Eviction scene in Ireland 1848

The ‘Levelling of Lisgobbin’ and the Great Famine in Roscommon < DR CIARAN REILLY

Few incidents in Roscommon, or Ireland for that matter, generated as much coverage during the Great Irish Famine as the murder of Major Denis Mahon in Strokestown in November 1847. Murdered as he returned to Strokestown, his demise was widely celebrated. ‘Within one hour of the foul deed being perpetrated the several hills were lighted by bonfires in every direction’, one newspaper commented as the people celebrated their victory over landlordism. However, there were to be few victories in Roscommon during the Famine years. Prior to his demise Denis Mahon was actually lauded in some circles for the large-scale assisted emigration scheme which he had undertaken, where almost 1,500 people were sent to Canada as a means of relieving distress. On closer examination, however, there may have been ulterior motives behind Mahon’s assisted emigration scheme of 1847. Further examination of the scheme suggests that the people ‘selected’ for emigration came from townlands where Denis Mahon was actively encouraging the promotion of a railway line to reach Strokestown. Eviction by another name perhaps? What is clear is that the evictions, which followed on the Mahon (then Pakenham Mahon) estate in 1848 and 1849, displayed a vindictiveness and were carried out as retribution for involvement in the killing of Mahon. For example, in 1848 John Ross Mahon, the agent, wrote: ‘the more I think of the Dooherty tenants the more necessary it appears to me that a strong example should be made of the whole townland’. This year marks the 175th anniversary of the Great Irish Famine, which began following the arrival of potato blight (or phytophthora infestans). Despite the passage of time and all that has been written in the intervening period, we have still much to learn and understand

John Ross Mahon, and on right, a family defending themselves against eviction.

about what happened during those years. One area which is worthy of further examination is that of eviction. Associated with the Famine more than anything, historians have long concerned themselves with ascertaining the exact numbers who were evicted. For many, the accepted figure is close to 250,000 families, or a million people. County Roscommon was badly hit by each of the four great phases of eviction which characterised the famine period. While Strokestown and Ballykilcline have been examined in the past, other evictions have faded from popular social memory. The levelling of Lisgobbin

Lisgobbin, about four miles from Roscommon town, was the scene of one of the worst evictions or clearances during the Great Irish Famine. Armed with carbines, about twenty police attended the levelling of Lisgobbin in September 1849 at the behest of the agent John Ross Mahon, who acted on behalf of the landlord, Mr Newcombe. The wrecking party, armed with crowbars, pick-axes and sledges, showed little mercy and spared no one. In a

short space of time 32 houses were levelled and erased from their foundations and 140 people were thrown unto ‘the world’s wide waste’. The newspaper account of the levelling of Lisgobbin describes the wailing of women and children as husbands pleaded with them to allow the ‘wreckers’ do their work, lest the eviction scene erupt into bloodshed. Having overseen numerous evictions on the Mahon estate at Strokestown, John Ross Mahon was signalled out for criticism noting that his ‘work of desolation still goes bravely on’. ‘Under his agency’ the newspaper continued ‘more hecatombs of human victims have been immolated than under that of any other party’. We know little of the names or of the plight thereafter of the inhabitants of Lisgobbin, which was flattened on that afternoon in September 1849. One poor woman named Mary Devine, we are told was a widow of six children, and in the midst of the destruction was pulled from the cabin before it tumbled under her. The cabin was described as being 12 feet by 10 located in a piece of bog. The ‘wreckers’ were said to be unmoved by the scenes of misery as they carried out their duty. Paid mercenar-

ies. The Roscommon Messenger noted that some of those evicted left that day for America. The clearance at Lisgobbin was just one act in the large-scale plans to carry out a new ‘plantation of Roscommon’ by replacing starving tenants with prosperous English farmers from Norfolk and elsewhere. English and Scottish newspapers at the time carried advertisements about the vast swathes of land which awaited them in Roscommon. Many took up the offer, as they did from other Irish counties including Wicklow, Laois and Clare. However, there was pessimism, for example, on the part of the Roscommon Messenger newspaper who believed that the hoped for English tenants would not arrive in large numbers. Several Roscommon landlords were successful in renting their lands to English farmers, and families such as the Pearces and Elliots who took up holdings near to Roscommon Town were part of this plan. In an effort to make way for new tenants, other proprietors did likewise. The evictions highlighted that the evictors did not just include the gentry and the aristocracy but also a significant number of merchants, shopkeepers

and cattle dealers. Take for example the Frenchpark evictions in 1849, when more than 270 people were evicted from the townlands of Mullen, Raheela and Listrumneale, then owned by William Murphy of Smithfield, County Dublin. Murphy, it appears, had no connection with Roscommon and when rents were not forthcoming he duly sent a team of ‘wreckers’ to carry out the evictions. These evictions were widely criticised, as were others. In 1848 Peter McKeogh defended the decision to evict two tenants from the lands of Derrycunnane, near Kilglass, as they were ten years in arrears. In the same year 200 people were evicted by a middleman renting from a Mr. Ormsby near Roscommon Town and their houses levelled. At Gardenstown, near Boyle and Araghty, on the Galway/ Roscommon border, the landlord Nicholas Balfe evicted 42 people; at Slevin, near Castleplunkett, the representatives of the Goff minors evicted five; Charles Webber evicted seven people at Acres, near Roscommon, while Henry Moriarity and George Bolton were others who evicted at Ballyphesan and Lugboy. Three of the other large eviction scenes occurred in the vicinity of Boyle where Lord Lorton (45 people), Lord de Freyne (36 people) and from an estate which was in the Court of Chancery (91 people) all evicted tenants in the autumn of 1849. The total annihilation of the people of Lisgobbin soon faded from popular social memory and today little evidence remains of this once-teeming population and settlement. How many more such settlements vanished from County Roscommon? In this, the 175th anniversary of the Great Famine, we should begin to explore these local issues further. Dr. Ciaran Reilly is an historian of 19th & 20th Century Irish History at Maynooth University. He is the author of Strokestown and the Great Famine (published in 2014)

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

ChamberPeople

Shop LOCAL Eat LOCAL Spend LOCAL Enjoy LOCAL

15 The local paper

# Shop local! # Resilient Ros! A Roscommon Chamber and Roscommon People initiative The Roscommon People newspaper and Roscommon Chamber of Commerce, as part of our joint response to the Covid-19 crisis, is appealing to the public to continue to exclusively shop locally as the huge challenge of mounting an economic recovery gets underway. Paul Healy, Editor of the Roscommon People: “It’s great to see so many businesses reopening. Here at the Roscommon People, we want to wish the very best to all involved. And we’re urging our thousands of readers to continue to support local businesses and service providers by shopping locally”. Brendan Allen (Chamber President): “Local businesses need your support more than ever. Local businesses, most of which have been closed for months – an unprecedented situation for them – are desperately trying to salvage and maintain employ-

ecial To avail of sp rtising ve discounted adcommon rates for Ros bers, and m Chamber me is section, inclusion in thcommon call the Ros 805 4227 6 People on 08 ertising@ or email adv eople.ie roscommonp ment levels. Every euro spent locally will help keep people in employment. “The members of Roscommon Chamber – and all local businesses who are not members are invited to join us now – are deeply grateful to our

REGAN’S Gastro Pub & Restaurant THE SQUARE, ROSCOMMON

To pre-book your table, please call David on 090 66 25339 or 086 2499619

local customers for their support. Key to our recovery will be Roscommon’s great community spirit. We can do this – together. Adhering to a ‘shop local’ philosophy will be key. Let’s get Roscommon moving again!”

Social distancing/Covid-19 guidelines in place

Thank you for your custom and support

Roscommon Leisure Centre Roscommon town –

Re-opening Pool & Gym facilities on Monday 20th July

090 66 28219

For further updates please go to roscommonleisurecentre.ie or see us on facebook

We are delighted to confirm that we will be re-opening our POOL & GYM FACILITIES on Monday July 20th and our FITNESS CLASSES and SWIMMING LESSONS will re-commence from July 27th We have been liasiing with Industry Representatives and Government agencies to ensure we implement high standards of Health & Safety for our staff and customers. We are delighted to confirm that our customers will have access to Pool, Sauna, Steam Room and Gym facilities. However, shower, hair dryer and locker facilities will not be available at this time. Gym customers must arrive to the gum togged out, with no personal belongings. It is important to note that capacity will be reduced in all areas of the Centre due to Goverment guidelines and social distancing will be implemented. There will also be new protocols in place that must be ahdered to.

BOOKING Customers will need to book in advance of attending the Pool, Gym and Fitness Classes. Booking will be open from Monday July 13th. Please note, we will not be taking bookings through social media. Please ring the Centre on 090 6628219 to make a booking and on arrival will be asked to complete a Health & Safety Declaration form. SWIM LESSONS Intensive Lessons (Monday - Friday), will commence on the week of 27th July, 10th August and 17th August. Booking will open Thursday 16th July.

FITNESS CLASSES Aqua Aerobics and Aqua Spinning will recommence from Monday July 27th. Class sizes will be reduced and booking is required. ADMISSION POLICY www.roscommonleisurecentre.ie U-10s MUST be accompanied in the water. For further updates and new customer journeys, plase visit our website: www.roscommonleisurecentre.ie Please bear with us during these unprecedented times and we are operating on reduced staff numbers and it will take us a little longer to respond to your queries.

all makes and models, but also have a particular focus on the high spec end of the industry with very competitive prices on offer.” Located over an expansive one acre site, the business is located on the former grounds of ‘Connacht Motors’. located between Lidl stores and Top Oil Filling

whom he says “has been a massive help”. to succeed.” Petrol is in his blood so to speak, as uncle “In coming months, I will be taking on Tom McLoughlin runs Midland Karting in extra staff. I’m very excited about this People Friday 17 July Edgeworthstown while his own passion for Roscommon business opportunity. We will have 2020 an cars goes right back to his childhood. extensive range of imported, high quality “I’ve been reared around cars. The new and used cars on site. I want customers The local paper advantage customers will have here is that to be satisfied with what we offer. We’re Conor Cassidy proprietor of Conor Cassidy Cars situated at the Lanesboro Road, because I don’t have major overheads, they revved up here and ready to go,” says Conor. Roscommon. Pic Gerard O’Loughlin

ChamberPeople

Shop LOCAL Eat LOCAL Spend LOCAL Enjoy LOCAL

We provide quality new and used cars & commercial vehicles to suit every need QUALITY CARS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES

AD, LANESBOROUGH RO P668 2 4 F N W O T N O M M O ROSC

ie . s r a c y id s s a c r o n o c . w w See w

Stock ty li a u Q p To d n E h ig H f ge O

• All Vehicles Sold Fully Serviced

• Fresh NCT/DOE

• Finance Arranged

• Car Sourcing

Free Nationwide Delivery & Warranty

To View Our Ran

When Jack Charlton brought Roscommon – and Ireland – to a (glorious) halt < SEAMUS DUKE

The contribution made by Jack Charlton not only to Irish football but to Irish society as a whole, has been eloquently and suitably remembered in almost every media outlet in the country since the news of his passing broke on Saturday morning last. I feel for those who were not old enough (or yet born) to experience what went on in the country during the Jack Charlton era. It is difficult to explain the enormity of what happened when Big Jack was the Irish team manager and what effect it had on the entire country. It was an extraordinary time. Two separate matches came into my mind as I reflected on Jack’s passing at the weekend. The first was the day of the famous penalty shootout against Romania at Italia ’90. It was a Monday. The match was at 4 pm Irish-time. The country literally came to a halt. We had gathered in the Lyons’ Den pub in Church Street in Roscommon Town, which (like every other pub in the country) was packed to the rafters. Just before 4 pm, local photographer Gerry O’Loughlin went out and took a photo of Main

Street. There wasn’t one car on the road. Proprietor Tom Lyons promised all and sundry that he would provide complimentary champagne if Ireland won. The tension grew as the match went on, and then we were into the

shootout. When Dave O’Leary scored the clinching spot-kick, the place went mad. True to his word, Tom Lyons arrived out with a tray of glasses holding what looked like champagne. However, the truth was that he had found a crate of Babycham

under the counter which he couldn’t sell – and that was our treat! (Editor: insert “allegedly” here!). It was such fun. Later that night we learned that the O’Gara family would open Miss Ellie’s as a once-off. It was packed. People just didn’t want

to go home. What a night. Fast-forward to 1994 and Ireland v Italy at Giants Stadium. That game was on the Saturday, at 8 pm Irish-time. Once again the pubs were jam-packed. I was in the Royal Hotel bar that night. The details of the

match are well known, with Ireland pulling off a spectacular win. The place (and the whole country) went mad at the final whistle. I was playing music in Rockford’s Nightclub that night. There was many a great night there over the years but I never experienced an atmosphere like the one after the win against Italy. It was electric. It was like someone had cast a spell of happiness over the entire country for those few hours. The Irish soccer team under Jack Charlton brought such joy and happiness to the Irish people at a time when things were tough here in this country. The team – and Charlton – dared us to dream. He wasn’t afraid of any opposition. Jack and his players could make us forget our cares and troubles, even if it was only temporarily. The arguments about the style of play he adopted are for people who know far more about soccer than I do. All I know is that I was lucky enough to be alive at the time and to experience what was an incredible time for Irish sport and for the Irish people. Thanks for the memories big man, and I hope that you rest in peace.

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

ChamberPeople

Shop LOCAL Eat LOCAL Spend LOCAL Enjoy LOCAL

Update on the reopening of the Sacred Heart Church Statement from Roscommon Parish Office

Roscommon Credit Union Member Draw The winners of Roscommon Credit Union’s July member draw are as follows: 1st prize (€10,000) went to Sheila Killeen, 2nd prize (€3,000) went to Dervilla Hoare-Beattie, 3rd prize (€2,000) went to Rachel Murtagh, 4th prize (€1,000) went to Edel Bannon-Lyons, 5th prize (€900) went to Declan Ryan, 6th prize (€800) went to Tara Mary Flanagan, 7th prize (€700) went to Anne Cuttle, 8th prize (€600) went to Patricia Macklin, 9th prize (€500) went to Peggy Beades and 10th prize (€500) went to Joanne Devaney. The Credit Union holds bi-annual member-only draws in July and December, with a cash prize fund of €20,000. To enter, members can sign up in any branch office. Entry is €10 per draw with funds going directly to our cash prize fund. Next draw takes place in December 2020.

Thanks to the hard work of Roscommon Parish Covid-19 Support Team and the generosity of those who have volunteered for stewarding or cleaning, we are looking forward to reopening the Sacred Heart Church to public Mass on next Tuesday, July 21st at 8 am. Our new Mass schedule is as follows: Monday at 11 am, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 8 am and 11 am, Friday at 11 am, Saturday at 11 am and 7 pm (Vigil), and Sunday at 9 am and 11.30 am. Please note given the large population of our parish along with the continuing government restrictions on large mass gatherings indoors, weekend Masses in Roscommon church will be arranged on a station area basis until further notice. Further details on this will be published in this weekend’s newsletter and on the parish Facebook page: www.facecbook.com/roscommonandkilteevanparish. We are also pleased to announce that thanks to the generosity of parishioners in recent weeks, we have been able to purchase and install a perma-

The local paper

Klassic Cleaners

Church Street, Roscommon. Tel: 090 6625995 Dry Cleaning: Suits, pants, coats, jumpers, shirts, casual/ formal dresses, etc. • Ironing/pressing service • CURTAINS A SPECIALITY FULL LAUNDRY SERVICE, including; Blankets, Duvets, Throws,Team Kits, etc.

ALTERATIONS & REPAIRS

Face Masks available – Double-layered & Washable nent webcam in Sacred Heart Church to video live stream church services on the internet. You can view our Masses on churchtv.ie/roscommon. We will continue also to broad-

cast on parish radio, 105.9FM. Mass also continues to be celebrated in Kilteevan Church at 10 am on Sundays. Thanks again for your support.

Opening hours: 9 am to 5pm Monday to Saturday

ABBEYTOWN, ROSCOMMON. TEL. 090 6625940. Email: info@molloysbakery.ie • Website: : www.molloysbakery.ie

ut our Check o Week the Wine of .00 off 1 Offer - €

‘Family Business, Local & Sustainable’

€

on p u o C f f 1.00 o AKFAST

ny BRE a f f o 0 0 . L - Yes! €1OR LUNCH DEA inclusive ly u J h t th to 18 - Offer 16

Fresh Cream Treats Available Every Day including Sundays

OPENING TIMES Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm Sunday 9am to 2pm

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

Luke Ming Flanagan

‘If you’re not angry, you’re emotionally and politically dead’ As we launch the Roscommon People Podcast series, Editor PAUL HEALY talks to MEP Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan about his life and times… PH: You’re a native of Castlerea, Ming? Ming: By the skin of my teeth I wasn’t born in London! Three out of the six children in our house were born in London and three of us in Roscommon Hospital. My father (Luke) was a carpenter. He’s retired now…my mother (Lily), according to my birth cert, did nothing. But I can only assume they didn’t put down a profession for her because they couldn’t fit all that she did for me and my brothers and sisters in that small little box on my birth cert. My mother was a cook, she was a psychologist, she was a hairdresser – not great at it – she was every profession under the sun, depending on what was needed on the day. But we call them housewives in Ireland. My father worked in England for a number of years, he came home on summer holidays, and met my mother. They ended up getting married, she headed off to London with him, loved the place. Part of her I think regretted that she came back, part didn’t. My father worked on the building sites

in London as a carpenter. They came back here in 1971 and built a house, I think it cost about 1800 pounds. PH: What age were you when your mother passed away? Ming: I was 37. PH: When you were elected in 2011 (to the Dáil) you were very emotional…. you dedicated much of that to your mother, and to your father…obviously your parents were a huge influence on you? Ming: I would say that the main emotion that my parents experienced about me in my first seven years as a politician was terror and fear…as to what exactly is going to happen to our son. I didn’t have children at that time, and I didn’t fully understand that…I now understand it in spades. I actually wonder why they weren’t even more worried about me. PH: Why would they be worried? Ming: Because you’d never see the police or the guards coming to my door when we were growing up. And they raised me very well…and then saw me enter a world where because of what I was protesting about…whether that be legalisation of cannabis or the bog (issue) where armed police were standing on a bog road, trying to stop turf-cutting…they wouldn’t really have been used to that. You mentioned how I spoke about my mother in 2011. I’m an atheist, and I don’t have much faith that she heard me, but I wanted to put it out there, that you (his mother) don’t have to worry about me any more. When I got elected to the Council they stopped

Full interview on….

Paul Healy speaks to Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan about his life and times Available to listen on Sound Cloud and on roscommonpeople.ie worrying, they saw that a wage was coming in, a future for me…I know it would have put the tin hat on it for my mother if she had been around when I got elected to the Dáil. People might say that they don’t care what the neighbours think…but they do. And it bothers them, and it gets to them. And I’d have liked if she was there, at that moment, so the neighbours could talk about me being a TD behind her back, instead of saying ‘What’s he at?...them drugs’. PH: When did you first take cannabis? Ming: The first time I ever tried cannabis was actually in my second year in college. It might amaze some people that I actually got through a year in college without trying it! I went to Galway RTC in 1989-1990 and I did science. It was during that period – and I didn’t know it at the time, but looking back it was so bleeding obvious that it’s scary that I couldn’t spot it – I was seriously, seriously depressed. I remember one day, I pushed the snooze button on my alarm from 8 in the morning to 7.30 in the evening. Now you might say it was obvious you were depressed, but I just couldn’t see that. I ended up falling out of college. I applied then to Sligo RTC, as it was called at the time, to do mechanical engineering. So it was around then that I tried cannabis for the first time, and I liked it, I enjoyed it. I knew it was illegal of course, but only when you use it and you discover the consequences of this illegality does it really dawn on you how significant this law is. I tried it there and it inevitably became an issue for me. PH: At some point, you served a short period in jail? Ming: I had adopted the view that if I was caught in possession of cannabis, I would not pay the fine, which would obviously result in me being sent to prison. While I didn’t want to go to prison, I knew that if I did, it would attract quite a lot of publicity for this idea that it should be legalised. I must also say that I gained an experience that I believe every politician in the country should get an experience of – some may say they should do more than just visit prison, but rather stay there! From the point of view of educating me on how this country works, what needs to change and how it doesn’t work, I would say going to prison was the best educational experience of my life. I went in there with a sort of contempt, fear, dislike or even

downright hatred of the people in there, and I came out scratching my head, thinking that if 99% of people started off the way 99% of the people I’d met there grew up, we’d have ended up in the same place. That isn’t to say that people shouldn’t take responsibility, but if you try and sow spuds in concrete you can’t get mad at the spuds for shrivelling up and dying. PH: The nickname ‘Ming’, and indeed ‘Ming the Merciless’ (from ‘Flash Gordon’) in earlier years, is it one you’re comfortable/uncomfortable with? Ming: I am immensely comfortable with it! My father is not a politician. My father is not publicly well-known. If the name Luke Flanagan went on the ballot paper, it wouldn’t have as much effect on the public as Luke Doherty or Luke Leyden. So I thought to myself, “Well, no disrespect to my father, a great man, I need something that’ll make people sit up and look when they see the ballot paper. What exactly is that going to be?” So I decided that I would call myself ‘Ming’, and people would remember me. PH: At this point I take it that you had the ponytail and the goatee? Ming: At this stage I’d a shaved face, a Hare Krishna ponytail and Hasidic Jewish locks. That was the image at the time, and where the look came from. It garnered me a lot of attention, and my view was, ‘Now that I’ve got attention through this cacophony of ridicule, I’m going to be louder than that cacophony and people are going to hear my message’. And they did, eventually. PH: Perhaps the big political breakthrough happened in 2011 when you were elected to the Dáil? Ming: For me, I think the big political breakthrough was getting elected to the council. Getting elected to the council is difficult, and getting re-elected to the council is difficult again. It’s very intense because everything is local, so every little thing you do, there is no escaping from it, good or bad. So I would say that that was the achievement. But I think one of the worst things you can do as a councillor is care too much, because it’ll kill you eventually. What I mean by that is that you’re in an impossible situation in that job. You have two roles – one of them is to hold the council to account, and the other is to get something for your community off the people you’ve just told, ‘You’re

wasting money’ – and that’s a serious flaw in the system. PH: What is the status of Castlerea swimming pool, and your commitments over the years to that project? Ming: I would absolutely love to see it open all-year-round. I produced a feasibility study that proved it could be open all-year-round. I produced plans that showed how it could be done in a financially efficient way. But I made one big mistake, and I said it to you earlier. I made the mistake of trying to stop Roscommon County Council from wasting their money and they didn’t like it, and no matter what I did after that, they were not going to do what I wanted them to do. PH: In 2011, you were elected to the Dáíl and spent a few years there before turning your attentions to Europe. What are your reflections on those few years? Ming: It was a massively steep learning curve, so steep it was almost undoable if I’m being honest, and that would be the case for many people when they’re first elected to Dáil Eireann. I have to say for the first while I found it overwhelming. I went from a situation whereby I would’ve sought publicity to establish myself politically, to a situation where I would rather have talked to the Devil himself than to a national journalist. The reason why I say that is, I entered our national parliament to become a member of the legislature and try and improve the country, and I met a media that were interested in nothing more than the sort of stuff they pull you up on in school as a bully, (a media which) points and shines a light on all your failures and turns off the light for everything you’ve accomplished. I believe I was the first TD at the time when we passed the private members’ motion on the turf-cutting, to get the government to vote for a private members’ motion, in I think about 13 years. In the end I discovered that actually, the power didn’t lie in Roscommon, the power didn’t lie in Dublin, it lay in Europe. I discovered it when it came to turf-cutting, I discovered it with the bank bail-out. I discovered it with the Common Agricultural Policy. PH: There is a perception, or indeed a reality, that we lose touch with some of our MEPs, some will say they don’t have great knowledge of what our MEPs are doing. What are your thoughts on that? Ming: That is definitely true, but all you have to do is look at our national newspapers and look at the number of correspondents they dedicate to European Union politics. As far as I know, Independent News & Media has no one assigned to it. So from the point of view of people finding out about it, the Independent, the biggest newspaper, don’t cover it, so how will people know? Then you look at our TV, you look at our national broadcaster – we have a European Parliament programme that goes out at a time when, if you’re up, you’ve probably had a few pints! I have actually contacted RTÉ and told them that I would not be participating in programmes starting at that hour because I think it’s a waste of time. I also contacted other MEPs and suggested we boycott the programme until they put in on at

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

Luke Ming Flanagan

another time. Now RTÉ came back to me and told me it is on at a good time – I wrote back ‘If it’s on at such a good time why don’t you put Fair City then at that hour of the night?’ PH: You’ve spoken about having mental health struggles over the years. How has that manifested itself with you, and how are you coping with that? Ming: I spoke earlier about my experience in college and pressing the snooze button, that should’ve been an alarm for me. But I have had this all my life. I remember as a child, sitting in front of a fire and just looking at it, trying to get lost in it. I just didn’t like what was happening in the world, in my life, whatever it was. It wasn’t because of my family or anything, it was just the way my mind works. Throughout my life, bit by bit, it becomes more and more obvious that there is any issue with it. It affects every day of your life because you have to convince yourself every single day to get up and get going again. I can’t do that all of the time but most of the time I can. The mechanism I have found works best for me personally, was doing intense exercise. A walk helps, but for me I prefer a run. It’s about doing the things that my body was genetically meant to do – go out and use up a lot of energy, not be staring at a screen and sitting down all the time. So to deal with my mental health issues, I started running. I did that after the 1997 General Election in Galway. I started then and on and off, I’ve been running since. During the European Elections, every morning, before the day started, I had to go for a run, because if I didn’t there would’ve been an empty chair at quite a lot of the debates. I just wouldn’t have been able to face it.

PH: Are you angry? Sometimes you seem angry – is that something you use to get things done, to get things noticed? Ming: Well, when you have people contact you and tell you their son who has a brain injury is now in an old people’s home even though they’re in their forties – what emotion should you have to that? If you’re not angry, you’re emotionally and politically dead. Anger can be used in a good way or it can be balled up and destroy you. Fortunately I had a vehicle to express this, and tell people about it. If I expressed it with any other emotion, it wouldn’t be doing service to the people who contacted me in the first place. So yes, I’m angry with what has been done to the people of this country. I’m very angry about it, but I’m not angry all the time, I’m angry when I’m talking about it. I’m sad about it too – and I said it on my first day in the Dáil – I’m sad about the fact that so many members of my (extended) family had to go to England to look for a job. Looking at Michael Noonan saying, “It’s all for the experience”. Well it wasn’t much of an experience for my mother crying at the door. I use that anger for positive ends. PH: Have you confidence in the new government? Ming: Looking at the programme for government, it’s very waffly. The area I focus on most now, and it’s an area I knew nothing about, and definitely an area I knew nothing about growing up, is agriculture, the production of our food and what we eat. I’m looking at the programme for government and if the Green Party think that’s going to make us more enviromentally friendly in this country, they’re wrong. The big issue that should be talked about in the west of Ireland isn’t whether we’ve got a min-

ister or not, it should be the very boring and dull issue of whether convergence of farm payments happens or not. PH: You’re married to Judy and you have three daughters, Isobel, Katie and Saoirse. Home life – is it Brussels or Castlerea, or both? Ming: At the moment, it’s Castlerea until most likely next October, because really, travelling there just to come back and isolate for two weeks wouldn’t add very much to my productivity. Whereas if I stay here, I can vote, I can speak at meetings, I can put in amendments, I can take shadow meetings, technical meetings… PH: In normal circumstances, you’re based in Brussels with your family? Ming: Because we had a newborn baby, our plan was that the whole family would come over for the first two years. After that, my two teenagers daughters, they’d walk home if the got the chance because they discovered something. While they’d love to have loads of cinemas in Roscommon, and an iceskating rink and basically every shop in the world at the end of your street, life in Roscommon is better even without all of that at the end of your street. The freedom they have here and the life they have here is far superior. So when I set off to Brussels I’ll be heading off at three o’clock on a Monday, and coming back every Thursday at about twelve o’clock at night. So come October, I’ll be doing that three out of four weeks of the month. PH: What are you prioritising in the next couple of years? Ming: In the last Parliament, I tried to cover areas like Euopean defence, copyright directives, and agriculture, whereas now, as they say, if you have a

dog, you don’t bark yourself. Areas like security, defence and environment are otherwise covered and I am pretty much exclusively focusing on agriculture and rural development. Some people might say, is that not a bit narrow? Well I asked a school one day “Who would be interested in pursuing agriculture?”, and one or two students put up their hands. When I asked “Has anyone in the classroom eaten steak?”, everyone put up their hands. What we eat and how rural Ireland survives, that’s going to be my core between now and the end of this term. The more I concentrate on that, the better job I can do. PH: Are you concerned about the so-called decline of our rural villages and towns or do you think it’s been overstated? Ming: It depends what way we approach climate change, and it depends what way we sell it to people. It can be sold in a really good way that leads to a brilliant future for Roscommon because doing something about climate change means we’ll have to start baking our bread in our own towns again. It

means producing our own flour and sugar in this country. If done right, it means that anything you eat on any given day will have been produced here, locally, which means there will be jobs here locally, and there will be life here. My big fear is that the West of Ireland will do the heavy work when it comes to climate change and the rest of the country will grow our food while we look out at forestry all around us. That’s something that I want to fight.

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

NewsPeople

FRANK

FRANK BRANDON’S

BRANDON

unique take on life ...

Fond memories of Jack Charlton and a golden era Big Jack lifted the spirits of an entire nation, made millionaires out of lots of publicans, and made farmers out of lads who lived in high rise flats in Ballymun… It’s Monday morning, and there’s only one story on the national papers – and that is the passing of our favourite Englishman, Jack Charlton. For all of us who were lucky enough to live through the most wonderful period of Irish football during the late 1980s and early 90’s, his death transports us back in time to those glorious days and nights of seemingly neverending partying. It is well documented elsewhere, but from the time we qualified for the first ever Euros in 1988, to the World Cup in America in 1994, this country went bananas, and everyone joined in. The credit unions were literally cleaned out, and lads that never had a cow or a ewe – or even a goat – suddenly owned great big farms of land, and all needed term loans to keep them stocked up.

The late Jack Charlton, RIP.

Even the banks (hard to believe it now) joined in the fun. I remember a good banking friend of mine telling me of a mutual acquaintance whom he knew well to have no assets of any kind. Yet, on his loan application he was the miraculous owner of a 70-acre farm. Despite knowing there was no such property, my friend approved the loan, and the money was handed over, and – even more amazing – was actually paid back. The iconic images of cars decked out in Irish flags flying up and down our streets with lads drinking cans of cider hanging out of windows. Car horns being blown at all hours of the day and night, the famous ‘Davy Keogh says hello’ flag, and Joxer goes to Stuttgart are all memories from that never to be forgotten era, and as he left this earth last week there can be no doubt that Jack Charlton gave the Irish a decade of giddiness and happiness and excitement the likes of which we had never seen before, and most likely never will again. The reception the team got on their return from Italia ‘90 was the most extraordinary event in Irish sporting history as more than 500,000 people turned up to welcome the team home. As Kevin Moran

A return to the pub… On Sunday evening, exactly four calendar months to the day since I was last in a public house, or even had a drop of Guinness, I made my muchanticipated comeback when a family group of five went to Dolan’s in Creggs for a prebooked visit at 7 o’clock. Now I am the first to admit that I had some concerns that the country was opening up too fast, that Covid-19 regulations might not be adhered to, that all precautions might not be in place. As a man who must be

in the red zone when it comes to risk assessment for getting the disease, I assumed that I would be uncomfortable – and maybe even feel unsafe – in the new and unusual environment. The great news is that all my fears were unfounded. We had our own designated table, there was a charming security man on the door (that’ll be a pint, Alfie), we all had to sign in and get tagged as we entered (a bit like being in hospital). All social distancing was properly observed, there was

proper discipline and controls in place, the food was lovely, and all told it was a delightful (and much longed for) experience. Just in case I forget – the Guinness was like new milk, and I took to it as if I had never been away. The most important thing that the experience showed was that with the right mentality – on both the publican’s and the customer’s part – there is no reason why our public houses cannot reopen as presently scheduled on Monday next.

Of course it was a different experience, but in ways it was even better than before, and we just have to get used to the new way of doing things. If everyone does it as well as Joe Dolan did last Sunday, we will have no problems. Please God we don’t get this dreaded second wave, and we can, in a different form, go back to having the odd night out in our precious local pubs. Anyway, all I can say is I enjoyed my first night back, and here’s to many more. Cheers.

said later, the Irish team had lost in the quarter-finals, while our neighbours, England, had only lost in the semi-final (on penalties), yet half a million Irish fans turned up to welcome them home, while about half a dozen came to welcome England home. Jack himself couldn’t get over the reception and wondered out loud as to what it would have been like if we actually won it. I would say the party would still be going on! The other thing that made Jack Charlton so popular with the Irish people was his downto-earth approach to life. The son of a miner, Jack grew up in a house with no running water or bathroom, where the four brothers shared a bed because money was so tight. He grew up with a love of fishing and other outdoor pastimes. Even in later years, his biggest enjoyment was to head to the Moy and do a bit of salmon fishing. And so, as we bid farewell to Big Jack, all I can say is thanks for the memories. There is no doubt that for 10 years he, and his team, lifted the spirits of an entire nation, made millionaires out of lots of publicans, and made farmers out of lads who lived in high rise flats in Ballymun. May he rest in peace

And finally… Finally for this week…every year by now I would be telling you about our annual fundraising dance which we have been holding for Cancer Care West and the Lourdes Invalid Fund. This year’s dance was scheduled to be held in Dowd’s, Glinsk, on Saturday night, the 26th of September. Jimmy Kearney and The Lancers were to have supplied the usual excellent music, but realistically, looking at the situation now, it’s almost certainly not going to go ahead this time around. Ever-optimistic, we won’t officially pull the plug for another week or two. However, the truth is that it’s pretty sure to be a non-runner. So, for the first time in fifteen or sixteen years, it looks like you won’t have us calling to your doors with our tickets. There’s always a silver lining.

‘Till next week, bye for now

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

FarmingPeople Low-cost loan schemes must be rolled out urgently – IFA IFA Farm Business Chair Rose Mary McDonagh has called on the Government to roll out the new Future Growth Loan Scheme (FGLS) and the Covid Credit Guarantee Scheme (CCGS). “Farmers need immediate access to flexible, low-interest credit. The Government needs to finalise the terms and conditions of these schemes and make them available to applicants,” she said. The FGLS is guaranteed by the European Union and is intended for long-term investment purposes within SMEs. On the other hand, the CCGS is aimed at SMEs that have been negatively impacted by Covid-19 and requires legislation from the Irish Government, which will guarantee 80% of the loans under the scheme. “While these schemes are not ideal in that neither the FGLS nor CCGS allow for refinancing of projects paid for using cashflow, they will be an option for some farmers. Moreover, farmers are increasingly faced with the challenge of rising working capital needs as a consequence of Covid-19,” she said. The payment break on loans has temporarily alleviated the pressure on farmers. However, it’s expected that more farmers across all sectors will need access to low-cost credit in the weeks and months to come. Regrettably, the details surrounding the latest version of FGLS and the CCGS continue to be developed and change constantly. “Enough talking has been done about these schemes and we’re no closer to launching. It’s time for the Government to swiftly clarify the small print and promptly make the funds available,” concluded Ms. McDonagh.

Cattle prices are starting to rise, with a long way to go – IFA IFA National Livestock Chairman Brendan Golden has said that cattle prices are beginning to rise, with prices up 5c/kg to 10c/kg at most outlets. “Based on the major increase in price returns from our main export market in the UK, there is room for factories to increase prices a lot more. “While some factories continue to quote last week’s price, prices have moved on and factories are paying 5c to 10c/kg more, with the steer base price at €3.65/kg and heifers at €3.70/3.75/kg”. The IFA National Livestock Chairman said factories are very anxious for stock and are telling agents to leave nothing behind.

Brendan Golden said the Department of Agriculture official figures on cattle supplies from the AIMS data show that beef cattle numbers on farms on May 1st are down 93,000 head compared to last year. The latest data from the UK shows that cattle prices have increased dramatically over the last two months of May and June, by the equivalent of almost 40c/kg. “The latest R3 steer price for the UK for week ended June 27th is £3.67/kg, which is equivalent to €4.27/kg. This is 47c/kg above Irish prices and amounts to a price differential of €170 per head”.

At last Thursday’s sale, 450 cattle were on offer, and trade continues to remain very lively. With a good attendance of customers trying to source stores, and a number of northern buyers and exporters present, a good clearance took place. Bullocks and heifers continue on an upward curve, while the top weanling heifers fetched €3.60 a kilo. The dry cow

trade and breeding stock reported good clearances, while the calves/runners section has witnessed bigger turnout this week. Bullocks – sample prices: Ch 430kgs €1090 Six 405kgs €1040 Lmx 540kgs €1200 Lm 510kgs €1170 Lm 590kgs €1330 Ch 605kgs €1370 Ch 600kgs €1340 AA 565kgs €1230 AA 570kgs €1190. Heifers – sample prices: Lmx 425kgs €1080 Lm 355kgs €1050 AA 395kgs €930 Chx 460kgs €1200 Ch 495kgs €1160 Lmx 453kgs €1100

Dead & Worn-Out Animals

Contact

TOM ROGERS

Contact

JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Tel. (071) 96 34783 and (071) 96 33344

TEL: (090) 96 88606 (090) 96 88830 (090) 96 87651

Your LOCAL Collector Guaranteed lowest price

Lowest price GUARANTEED Daily collection

Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

Sales each Friday @ 11 a.m. For Bullocks, Heifers, Dry Cows & Weanlings Yard opens at 7.30 a.m. All cattle must be penned by 9 a.m. -----------------------

Lambs & Cast Ewes Each Wednesday @ 11 a.m.

Yard open at 8.30 a.m. All stock must be penned by 10 a.m. -------------------

Dates for your Diary Breeding Ewes & Hoggets Sales commence Saturday August 1st @ 11 a.m. -------

Lughnasa Show & Sale of Autumn Born Weanlings – Tuesday August 4th @ 4 p.m. Bookings up to 5 p.m. on Thursday July 30th -------

Autumn Special Sales for Heifers & Bullocks – Friday August 7th @ 11 a.m. Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Thursday July 30th -------------

MART WATCH Castlerea Mart Report

(Proudly serving farmers for over 61 years)

Lm 555kgs €1340 Ch 635kgs €1420. Dry cows – sample prices: Chx 750kgs €1380 Lm 645kgs €1250 Lm 715kgs €1350 AA 475kgs €870 Fr 630kgs €500. Cows with calves at foot made from €1110 to €1930 for an 8 year old cow and her Charolais bull calf at foot. Weanling bulls – sample prices: Chx 295kgs €860 Lm 265kgs €720 Ch 455kgs €1280 Lmx 425kgs €1140 Ch 395kgs €1030 Ch 360kgs €940. Sales continue at Castlerea Mart on Thursday with our weekly sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners, and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am.

Roscommon Mart Report Dry cows, heifers & bullocks – Friday, July 10th: There was a very good entry of excellent quality cattle on offer at our 61st Anniversary Special Sale. This week, there was once again a brisk trade for all stock with a good clearance of lots. A good number of both buyers and sellers availed of our LSL bidding app to purchase and view cattle being sold. Prices for bullocks ranged from an average of €2.25 per kilo up to a high of €3.25 per

kilo. Heifers ranged from an average of €2.25 per kilo up to €3.14 per kilo. Dry cows made from an average of €1.74 per kilo up to €2.27 per kilo. Please note sales will commence at 11 am from Friday next (17th). Intake from 7.30 am up to 9.30 am. Viewing by appointment from 10 am to 10.45 am. Limited access to the ring for buyers only. There is also an online bidding facility with LSL. Gates close at 9.45 am. Dry cows ranged from €1.74 up to €2.27 per kilo. Sample prices: BBX 875 kgs €1990, BB 880 kgs €1790, Simm X 900 kgs €1700, Char X 780 kgs €1450, Simm X 730 kgs €1430, Char X 775 kgs €1400, Lim 700 kgs €1340, Lim X 650 kgx €1300, AAX 780 kgs €1320, Lim X 590 kgs €1220, Char X 660 kgs €1180, Lim X 530 kgs €950. Heifers ranged from €2.25 per kilo up to €3.14 per kilo. Bullocks ranged from €2.25 per kilo up to €3.25 per kilo. Weanlings, Tuesday July 14th: We had a good entry of weanlings on offer at our 61st Anniversary special sale held on Tuesday last. Weanling bulls averaged from €2.34 per kilo up to €3.23 per kilo. Weanling heifers fetched from €2.40 per kilo up to €3.05 per kilo.

There was a good demand for stock from customers at the ringside and online. A special entry of cows with calves made from €1870 up to €2320. Please note that next weanling sale will be held on Tuesday, August 4th at 4 pm. Bookings accepted up to 5 pm on Thursday, 30th of July. Sheep Sale, Wednesday July 15th: There were increased numbers on offer this week with an improved trade. Spring lambs made up to €124 for 49.1 kgs. Stag ewes made from €58 up to €110 per head. Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID tag set. Our next sheep sale is next Wednesday, 22th of July. Sheep are to be penned by 10 am on the day of the sale. Spring lambs, sample prices: 49.1 kgs €124, 51.9 kgs €124, 47.50 kgs €120, 51 kgs €120, 47 kgs €118, 46.30 kgs €118, 47.60 kgs €117, 47 kgs €115, 46.7 kgs €114.5, 45.80 kgs €112, 43.3 kgs €110. Store lambs, sample prices:36.30 kgs €90, 37.50 kgs €87, 36.20 kgs €86, 35.50 kgs €85, 36 kgs €84, 32.7 kgs €82, 36.50 kgs €82, 34.40 kgs €81, 32kgs €80, 33.10 kgs €78. Cast ewes made from €58 to €110 per lot.

Cattle may also be purchased on line- by downloading the LSL App or livestock-live.com Please contact the Mart if you require any assistance with the setting up of the App

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

Live streaming of sales from Ring 1 - see Facebook or website Email: roscommonmart@gmail.com Visit our website: www.roscommonmart.ie

Find us on facebook

Property Services Providers Licence No. 002249

TELEPHONE: 094 9620300 Email: info@castlerealivestockmart.com Web: www.castlerealivestockmart.com THURSDAY WEEKLY:

SALE OF BULLOCKS, HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES, RUNNERS AND WEANLINGS. • ALL STOCK PRE-BOOKED. • YARD OPENS AT 8 A.M. • ALL STOCK TO BE PENNED BY 10 A.M. • ALL SALES COMMENCE AT 11 A.M. LIVE AUCTION WILL TAKE PLACE AS WELL AS ON LINE SALE WITH MARTBIDS .IE.

For Enquiries Please Contact Mart Office Or Vist Our Website For Details.

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

NewsPeople

Pictured at the launch of County Roscommon Domestic Abuse Resource Pack were Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice, Sgt. Adrian Duffy, Louise O’Toole, Tusla, Denise Swanick, Tusla, Michelle Timon, Mary Mullarkey Solicitors, Dr. Mark McCafferty, Lorraine Gorman,Tusla, Martina Durkin, Family Resource Centre, and Supt. Gorretti Sheridan Pictured: Brian Farrell.

Pictured at the launch of County Roscommon Domestic Abuse Resource Pack were Anne Carey Tusla Project Manager, Caroline Duignan, co-ordinator, Roscommon Children and Young People Services, Maria Moynihan, Abbey Community College; Sgt. Maura McGarry, Boyle Garda Station; Linda Walsh, Roscommon SafeLink; Noreen O’Callaghan, Foroige; Karen Delaney, Boyle Family Life Centre, Inspector Tom Colsh, Boyle Garda Station; Louise Moran, Boyle Family Life Centre and Sinead O’Neill, Project Leader, Family Support Services, Nth. Roscommon. Picture: Brian Farrell.

Domestic Abuse Resource Pack launched in Roscommon The Roscommon Child and Family Support Network (CFSN) officially launched a Co. Roscommon Domestic Abuse Resource Pack recently. The resource pack was developed to equip professionals with the knowledge necessary to identify domestic violence and to support victims. The first of its kind in Ireland, the pack provides professionals with the tools and contacts of services in the local area to ensure the effects of domestic violence on families and children are limited. Roscommon CFSN is a collection of services that have come together

with the aim of improving service provision to better support children and families in the area. In 2019 the group identified a need for improved coordination of domestic abuse services within Co. Roscommon and decided to develop the Co. Roscommon Domestic Abuse Resource Pack. Denise Swanick, Roscommon Senior CFSN Co-ordinator, Tusla, said: “At some point in our professional life and/or private life we will be confronted by the issue of domestic abuse. The Co. Roscommon Domestic Abuse Resource Pack will assist

professionals to support victims, by providing information on how to recognise domestic abuse, the different types of abuse and how to access supports. The resource pack will signpost professionals through this complex and difficult issue, to ask the right questions and direct to the most appropriate service”. Denise added: “Supporting families and keeping children safe is everyone’s business hence the collaboration of services in the development of this document and delivery of services to children and families in Co. Roscommon”.

Ann Carey from Safe Link Roscommon’s domestic abuse service, said: “There has been an increase of 35% in new clients and an increase of 50% in crisis calls to the helpline since the beginning of Covid-19 so it is essential that people are aware of the supports available in Co. Roscommon. “There are no wrong doors in Co. Roscommon. The professionals who work with children and families throughout County Roscommon are here to assist, guide and walk with you on your journey to safety and a healthy lifestyle,” she said.

Community CCTV schemes ‘at a standstill’ – Callaghan

SUNDAY GOSPEL REFLECTION Sunday 19 July 2020 God is always teaching His people, we hear in today’s First Reading. And what does He want us to know? That He has care for all of us, that though He is a God of justice, even those who defy and disbelieve Him may hope for His mercy if they turn to Him in repentance. This divine teaching continues in the three parables that Jesus tells in the Gospel today. Each describes the emergence of the kingdom of God from the seeds sown by His works and preaching. The kingdom’s growth is hidden – like the working of yeast in bread; it’s improbable, unexpected – as in the way the tall mustard tree grows from the smallest of seeds. Again this week’s readings sound a note of questioning: Why does God permit the evil to grow alongside the good? Why does He permit some to reject the Word of His kingdom? Because, as we sing in today’s Psalm, God is slow to anger and abounding in kindness. He is just, Jesus assures us – evildoers and those who cause others to sin will be thrown into the fiery furnace at the end of the age. But by His patience, God is teaching us – that above all He desires repentance, and the gathering of all nations to worship Him and to glorify His name. Even though we don’t know how to pray as we ought, the Spirit will intercede for us, Paul promises in today’s Epistle. But first we must turn and call upon Him, we must commit ourselves to letting the good seed of His Word bear fruit in our lives. So we should not be deceived or lose heart when we see weeds among the wheat, truth and holiness mixed with error, injustice and sin. For now, He makes His sun rise on the good and the bad (see Matthew 5:45). But the harvest draws near. Let’s work that we might be numbered among the righteous children – who will shine like the sun in the kingdom of the Father. – Scott Hahn Ph.D., www.salvationhistory.com (courtesy of Sacred Heart Church)

“

‘At some point in our professional life and/or private life we will be confronted by the issue of domestic abuse’ – Denise Swanick, Roscommon Senior CFSN Co-ordinator, Tusla

Kathleen Mahon and Frances Hall, Boyle in Lough Key Forest Park recently. Picture: Mick McCormack.

The progression of community CCTV programmes throughout the country is currently at a standstill due to issues relating to data controllers according to Cllr. Liam Callaghan. He says that new guidelines from the Departure of Justice require joint data controllers to operate the scheme and must include An Garda Síochána – however this situation is “proving very complex in many Garda divisions”. Cllr. Callaghan: “In previous situations the local authority acted as data controllers but these new regulations are now making it impossible for many community groups to progress applications until this issue is resolved”. Data protection guidelines are also putting huge responsibilities on data controllers, Cllr. Callaghan said. “CCTV systems are proving very popular at combatting crime and anti-social behaviour in many towns and villages. The schemes are grant-aided by the Department of Justice and from what I understand the department needs to amend guidelines to prevent the collapse of these very important schemes. “I intend to contact newly-appointed Minister for Justice Helen McEntee and will seek opinion from the Gardaí to seek to resolve the situation”, he concluded.

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

PropertyPeople

A fine residence at Errit, Carrowbehy, Loughglynn

Stonecourt, Roscommon

Final offers invited for Stonecourt apartment

This week, David Diffley, (MIPAV) of Property Partners Earley, is inviting final offers above €80,000 for a quality two-bedroomed duplex apartment located at 23, Stonecourt, The Square, Roscommon. David commented on the property, saying: “Property Partners Earley are pleased to invite final offers after €80,000 for a primely located duplex apartment located in the heart of Roscommon town in the popular Stonecourt complex. The property boasts quality, spacious living accommodation throughout and with the benefit of free parking facilities at the front and rear of the complex”. This is a quality investment property to come available and the auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and final offers after €80,000 to sell. E1. For further details or to arrange a viewing, please contact David Diffley (MIPAV, TRV) of Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090 662 6579 or email ddiffley@propertypartners.ie.

About 10 minutes from Ballyhaunis and Loughglynn, 15 minutes from Knock International Airport and 17 minutes from Castlerea is this attractive bungalow which is in excellent condition. The property at Errit, Carrowbehy, Loughglynn, Co. Roscommon is a must for viewing. This residence comes to the market in immaculate condition throughout with asking price of €130,000. Situated on circa 0.6 acre site, this beautiful fourbedroomed, detached residence boasts breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, has scenic walks on the doorstep and is only 1.1km from Errit Lough which is a great place for swimming, kayaking and fishing. The bright, inviting en-

PROPERTY PARTNERS

PRSA No. 001481

EARLEY

NEW TO THE MARKET

A PRIME ROADSIDE PARCEL OF LANDS CONTAINING APPROX. 20.8 ACRES LOCATED AT

POLLRANNY & DRISHAGHAUN WEST, CASTLEPLUNKETT, CO. ROSCOMMON trance hall leads to the spacious, family-friendly kitchen/dining area with built-in units, tiled floor and integrated oven, while to the left of the hall, the tastefully designed living area features 100% wool carpet, integrated wood burner and back boiler. There are four large double bedrooms, all with 100% wool carpet, three with fitted wardrobes, and one ensuite. One could be used as an office/sitting room. There is also a fully tiled modern family bathroom.

The said property is surrounded by manicured gardens, an entrance gate, a large detached shed to the rear, a tastefully designed greenhouse, tarmac driveway and cement path to the front, side and rear. This property would be an ideal family home and is well worth a view. Call David at Sherry Fitzgerald P. Burke, Goff St., Roscommon on 0906627200 or email pburke@sfpburke.ie for further details or to arrange a viewing. BER: C3. Eircode: F45RX80.

A most attractive holding of lands located in a renowned farming district close to Kilmurray church and Castleplunkett village. The sale of these said lands offers an excellent opportunity for local farmers to increase their existing holdings and the auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers to sell.

---------------------------------------------------

FINAL OFFERS INVITED

A MOST ATTRATCIVE 2 B/R SEMI-DETACHED BUNGALOW RESIDENCE OF APPROX. 750 SQ.FT LOCATED AT

2 ESSEX GROVE, OFF CASTLE STREET, ROSCOMMON TOWN, F42 RT91.

Errit, Carrowbehy, Loughglynn, Co. Roscommon

CO. GALWAY

Price Guide: €115,000. A quality semi-detached bungalow residence offering spacious and mature gardens to front and rear located in a sought after residential area. The property has been carefully maintained and is presented for sale in good condition throughout within walking distance of the local shops, Roscommon town centre and all amenities. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and final offers to sell. BER: D1.

€110,000

CASTLEFIELD, WILLIAMSTOWN, CO. GALWAY

---------------------------------------------------

NEW TO THE MARKET

A MOST ATTRACTIVE MIXED USE INVESTMENT PROPERTY LOCATED AT

Call 090 662 7200

GOFF STREET, ROSCOMMON Find out more at mysherryfitz.ie

CO. ROSCOMMON

€103,950

10 RIVER OAKS KILCOLMAN, BALLAGHDERREEN

• Beautifully Presented 3-4 bed farmhouse. • Located in a peaceful countryside area on C.1.2 acre site. • 5 minutes from Williamstown, 10 minutes from Castlerea, 25 minutes from Knock International Airport. • Newly surfaced driveway and yard. • Large bright and spacious rooms throughout. • Manicured gardens to the front, side and rear. CALL DAVID FLYNN : 090 6627200

CO. GALWAY

€70,000

BALLYGAR RD. MOUNTBELLEW CO. GALWAY

• Spacious and well proportioned end-terrace residence. • Located on the front row of the popular development of River Oaks in Ballaghaderreen. • Only 15 minutes from Knock International Airport and 45 minutes from Westport. • The property has the benefit of a large garden to the rear. • Within easy reach of town centre ½ km

• Residential site with full planning permission for 4 bedroom dwelling. • Ideally located within walking distance of the town centre. • It is rear that a site with F.P.P. comes to the market so close to town. • Generous living accommodation.

CALL DAVID FLYNN : 090 6627200

It’s not just about property. It’s about people. PSRA No. 001316

O’Carolan’s Court, Kilronan Castle, Ballyfarnon

Viewings now invited for luxurious Kilronan Castle properties

This week, John Earley (FIPAV) of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon is pleased to advise that the new phase of properties at the exclusive O’Carolan’s Court, Kilronan Castle, Ballyfarnon, Co. Roscommon are available for viewings. Price from €107,500-€130,000. Whether as an investment, a holiday home or for a weekend escape, you can indulge yourself in some of the most unspoiled countryside without feeling isolated. These spacious properties are presented for sale with fitted kitchen, fitted fireplace, fitted wardrobes and fitted and tiled bathrooms. Purchasers will have the benefit of two years’ membership of Kilronan Castle’s world class leisure centre. For further details or to arrange a viewing please contact John Earley (FIPAV) of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 090 662 6579, log on to www.propertypartners.ie or email jearley@propertypartners. ie.

“CUIRT NA RI”, MAIN STREET, BOYLE, CO. ROSCOMMON, F52 EV18.

(being sold with the benefit of vacant possession. A prime property with good future rental income potential offering 4 no Commercial Units and 1 no 2 B/R Apartment)

A substantial town centre mixed use investment property offering 4 number retail unit on the ground floor together with a quality 2 B/R apartment on the 1st floor. The said property is comprised in folio RN5549 and offers a self advertising location adjacent to the King House Historical Cultural Centre, the Boyle river and Boyle town centre. The said property is being sold with the benefit of vacant possession and the auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers to sell. Legal: Messers Dermot McDermott, 1 Union Street, Abbey Quarter North, Sligo.

Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon Email: jearley@propertypartners.ie www.propertypartners.ie of Professional ipav Institute Tel: (090) 6626579 / 6626796 Auctioneer & Valuers Fax: (090) 6625405 PSRA Licence No. 001481

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

PropertyPeople

ONLINE AUCTION 18TH AUGUST 2020

Caldrymoran, Elphin, Co. Roscommon, F45KX38

ONLINE AUCTION 27TH AUGUST 2020

Killaster, Ballinagare, Co. Roscommon, F45 KN81

3 Bedroom Detached Bungalow with Detached workshop and 3 no. outbuildings on 0.46 acre site, conveniently set within close proximity to Ballinagare Village and the N5 national primary route. Excellent opportunity to purchase a modern 3 bedroom bungalow (18 years old) set in a picturesque rural location at what is considered excellent value for money Guide Price: €80,000

An Impressive 4 Bedroom Bungalow finished to a high standard throughout and conveniently set on the outskirts of Elphin Village. Offering excellent value for money, the said Auctioneers advise immediate enquiries Guide Price: €100,000

ONLINE AUCTION 30TH JULY 2020

Gurteen, Williamstown, Co. Galway, F45 XD80

NEW TO THE MARKET FOR SALE BY PRIVATE TREATY 1 Lanesboro Street, Roscommon Town, F42 E974

Quality 4 bedroom detached property centrally located in Roscommon Town. The property is finished to a high standard and benefits from a cobblelock driveway and private rear garden. The central location of this property cannot be underestimated and it is within walking distance to all amenities. Viewing is highly recommended Guide Price: €220,000

3 Bed Detached bungalow on c. 11.86 acres of good Agricultural land with associated farm outbuildings situated thereon. The said house is newly renovated, modernized, fully dry lined and heavily insulated. The house is fitted with OFCH and solid fuel which is connected to the Radiators and Water. The land itself is considered good agricultural land and immediate enquiries advised Guide Price: €170,000

ROSCOMMON TOWN

T: 090 66 30001 • W: www.reacarthy.ie

PSRA Licence No. 002782

Quality and luxury ‘A’ rated new build available at Castlemanor

Offers above €130,000 invited for Roscommon property REA Seamus Carthy are delighted to present for sale this quality four-bedroomed, semi-detached home conveniently located on the outskirts of Roscommon town. The property is situated in the residential estate of Cluain Fraoigh, Roscommon town, within walking distance to all amenities, including schools, shops, etc. No. 24, Cluain Fraoigh is presented in good condition and comprises of living room, kitchen/dining room, utility, WC at ground floor, four bedrooms (one ensuite), and a family bathroom at first floor. This is a quality home located in an exceptional location and Seamus now invites every offer above €130,000. Viewing is highly recommended and immediate enquiries are advised. Contact REA Seamus Carthy today on 090 66 30001 or info@reacarthy.ie to arCluain Fraoigh, Roscommon range your viewing.

This week, John Earley (FIPAV) of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon is pleased to bring to the market a substantial new build ‘A’ rated five-bedroomed, twostorey residence of approximately 2,002 square feet located at 38, Castlemanor, Racecourse Road, Roscommon town, Co. Roscommon. The house will be constructed to the highest quality of finish with a stylish designed home offering spacious well proportioned accommodation for modern

family life. High energy efficiency and a bright relaxed atmosphere are a priority for this superior home of unmistakable quality and style. The auctioneers now invite immediate enquiries and offers to sell. BER: A2. For further details or to arrange a viewing, please contact John Earley (FIPAV) of Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090 66 26579 or email jearley@ propertypartners.ie.

38, Castlemanor, Racecourse Road, Roscommon town, Co. Roscommon.

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

PropertyPeople PSRA Licence: 001350

Final offers invited for attractive residence in Frenchpark Final offers are now invited for this four-bedroomed, dormer bungalow on circa 0.6 acres, with detached garage, at the Demesne, Frenchpark, Co. Roscommon (final offers by Friday, 24th of July by 12 pm). This attractive bungalow was built to a high standard but never occupied. There is an option to purchase an additional circa 7.45 acres adjoining to the rear. This residence is in an idyllic location boasting commanding views of the Hill of Keash and sur-

rounding countryside. Internally this property is bright and spacious, with accommodation on the ground floor consisting of a reception hallway, large sitting room with bay window and open fireplace, guest WC, bedroom, living room with fireplce, open plan kitchen/dining room, sunroom and utility room. On the first floor there are three bedrooms, a master ensuite and main bathroom. For further information and to arrange viewing, contact the office on 090 666 3700 or email info@ connaughtonauctioneers.ie.

Impressive two-storey in Mote Park Demesne Connaughton Auctioneers are delighted to present to the market this spacious, four-bedroomed, two-storey residence in excellent condition. The property is located in the much sought after residential area of Mote Park Demesne, a seven-minute drive from Roscommon town centre. The house stands on a mature private site of circa 0.5 acres with beautiful lawned gardens to rear and front. Internally, the residence oozes character with living accommodation on the ground floor consisting of entrance hallway and dining room to left, with archway into the kitchen area. To the right of the hallway there is a sitting room which can be used as an office or indeed fifth bedroom is so desired. The house features a large extension to the rear of the property overlooking the

PROPERTY SALES

LETTINGS l VALUATIONS

ATHLEAGUE, CO. ROSCOMMON. Tel. (090) 6663700. Mob. (086) 8985013 • www.connaughtonauctioneers.ie

NEW TO THE MARKET Four Bedroom Residence at

Mote Park, Roscommon F42 FK26 • Very attractive four bedroom two-storey residence in excellent condition boasting spacious living accommodation throughout • Located in much sought after residential area “Mote Park Demesne”, c. 2 miles from Roscommon Town • The residence stands on a c. 0.5 mature private site and has commanding views of the surrounding countryside • The auctioneer invites enquiries and offers for immediate sale To arrange a viewing contact the office on 090 6663700 Viewings at evenings, weekends and bank holidays also accommodated

NEW TO THE MARKET Four Bedroom Residence at

“Cloonliss Lodge”, Cloondarah Mount Talbot, Co. Roscommon F42 A611 • Luxurious four bedroom dormer residence‘Cloonliss Lodge’comes to market in pristine condition • Located adjacent Mount Talbot Estate and standing on c. 0.6 acres • Boasting spacious living accommodation throughout and with excellent views of surrounding countryside • Viewing is highly recommended For further details or to arrange a viewing, contact the office on 090-6663700 Viewings at evenings, weekends and bank holidays also accommodated

private gardens. There is a new bathroom on the ground floor, and a utility room to rear leading to patio area and an entrance to the adjoining garage. On the first floor there are four double bedrooms and the main bath-

room. The house is decorated to a high standard and is ready for occupation. For further details and to arrange viewing, contact the office on 090 666 3700 or info@ connaughtonauctioneers.ie.

Five-bedroomed townhouse on the market

NEW TO THE MARKET Five Bedroom Residence at

FEAMORE, KILTOOM, CO. ROSCOMMON N37 PE00

This week, Hughes & Company have a five-bedroomed townhouse on offer at Abbey Street, Roscommon, with a large yard and rear entrance. The property offers huge development potential, subject to planning permission being granted but would also be suitable for renting as the residence is in excellent condition and located in a prominent location. For further details, or to arrange an appointment to view, contact the office on 090 662 7003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers. com.

26 acres for sale

This week, Hughes & Company have on the market circa 26 acres at Mullymux, Roscommon, located in one block. The lands have been ploughed and re-seeded in recent years and have the benefit of being located within three miles of Roscommon town. The lands boast excellent road frontage and site potential subject to planning permission being granted. For further details, or to arrange an appointment to view, contact the office on 09066 27003 or email info@ pathughesauctioneers.com.

• Attractive five bedroom detached country residence in excellent condition standing on large mature private grounds • Located in much sought after residential area, c. 5 miles from the Dublin to Galway Motorway and Athlone Town • Boasting spacious living accommodation throughout • With commanding views of surrounding countryside • Viewing comes highly recommended and is strictly by appointment only. To arrange a viewing contact the office on 090 6663700 Viewings at evenings, weekends and bank holidays also accommodated

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

PropertyPeople Auctioneers & Valuers PSRA no. 001090

NO. 1 ABBEY ST., ROSCOMMON. TEL 090 66 27003. FAX 090 66 26296 EMAIL info@pathughesauctioneers.com Web: www.pathughesauctioneers.com

PSRA Licence No: 003201

New to the Market: -

### URGENTLY REQUIRED ###

Due to a number of recent sales we are urgently looking for all types of properties in and around the Roscommon Town area. If you are thinking of buying or selling contact Pat and let him advise you, his advice is free. Contact Pat on 09066 27003 or e-mail info@ pathughesauctioneers.com ------------------------------------------------------------------------

NEW TO THE MARKET - For Sale circa 25 acres at

CLOONULTRY, MOYCARN, BALLINASLOE, CO. ROSCOMMON

The lands are located a short distance off the main Athlone to Ballinasloe Road in a nice rural setting. The Lands have excellent road frontage. Most of the lands are of good quality but have been neglected over recent years and would need some clearance. For further details contact the office on 090 6627003 or e-mail info@pathughesauctioneers.com ------------------------------------------------------------------------

NEW TO THE MARKET - For Sale at MULLYMUX, ROSCOMMON circa 26.5 acres of top-quality land

Impressive Dormer Style Residence

BALLYMURRAY, CO. ROSCOMMON F42 F584

Donamon, Co. Roscommon

New to the market – fantastic Stud Farm in Donamon Oates Auctioneers are offering a prime 36 acre Stud Farm, with private accommodation, located at Donamon, Co. Roscommon, F42 TX46 – in the centre of Ireland, 30 minutes from Athlone, Longford (30mins), Galway (60 mins) and Dublin only (90 mins). This property offers excellent quality limestone lands, set out in eleven grass paddocks and two all-weather paddocks, six adult horse walker together with twenty boxes and all ancillary facilities. Residential accommodation comprises imposing 3 bedroom farm house. This is a rare opportunity to acquire a state-of-the-art equine property which has been carefully developed by its present owners. Offers in excess of €600,000. For further details or to arrange a viewing, contact the office on 090-6627878 or e-mail: info@oates.ie

Townhouse for sale

This week, Hughes & Company have a three-bedroomed townhouse for sale at Bank Gardens, Roscommon. Accommodation consists of a sitting room, kitchen/dining room, three bedrooms and a bathroom. The property would make an ideal investment opportunity. For further details, or to arrange an appointment to view, contact the office on 090 662 7003 or email info@ pathughesauctioneers.com.

Impressive new build property currently under construction in a highly sought-after residential location set adjacent to Mote Park Forest and amenity park being 10 minutes to Roscommon Town and 15 minutes to Athlone Town Centre. Built to a builder’s finish with a provisional Ber A rating, this property comprises majestic entrance hallway with feature oak stairway, open plan kitchen/dining room, sitting room, utility, office and bathroom. First floor, 4 large bedrooms, 3 ensuite together with family bathroom. Price Region: €365,000. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

New to the Market: -

‘CORRIGA’, LANESBORO ROAD, ROSCOMMON TOWN, F42 X018

‘Corriga’ is an exceptional five-bedroom detached family home standing on large private mature gardens within walking distance of Roscommon Town. It compromises of c. 4000 sq. ft. with an additional 1200 sq. ft. of garage/shed space on c. 2.5 acres site. Set in a landscape that sets it apart from any other home, the privacy and maturity of ‘Corriga’ are notable. Price Region: €495,000. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

New to the Market: -

The lands are located ½ mile off the main Tulsk to Roscommon Road. Compact farm located close to Roscommon Town. For further details contact the office on 090 6627003 or e-mail info@pathughesauctioneers.com ------------------------------------------------------------------------

NEW TO THE MARKET - For Sale at GALWAY ROAD, ROSCOMMON Large 4 Bedroomed Bungalow on a large corner site which would be suitable of further development subject to planning permission being granted.

Accommodation consists of Sitting Room, Dining Room, Kitchen, utility, 4 Bedrooms with one en-suite and a bathroom, 2 separate rooms which would be suitable for an office / Salon which is attached to a large garage. The Property is in excellent condition. The Residence is situated in a much sought-after area and within walking distance of all local amenities. Viewing is highly recommended. For further details contact the office on 090 6627003 or e-mail info@pathughesauctioneers.com

25 acres at Cloonultry, Ballinasloe This week, Hughes & Company have on the market circa 25 acres at Cloonultry, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon, with excellent road frontage and an old derelict residence thereon. The lands are situated approximately two miles from Ballinasloe, just off the old Ballinasloe to Athlone road. Pat Hughes is confirming that most of the lands are of good quality but have been neglected over recent years. It would be an ideal opportunity for local farmers to increase their holding or for somebody looking for a site with huge potential convenient to Athlone and Ballinasloe. For further details, or to arrange an appointment to view, contact the office on 09066 27003 or email

info@pathughesauctioneers.com.

11 THE SPINNEY, ABBEYTOWN ROSCOMMON F42 AY99 A substantial 5 bedroom detached residence located in this hallmark development in the centre of Roscommon Town within walking distance to railway station and all local amenities, schools, supermarket, bakery, hotel and church. This property would make and excellent family home or investment property. Spacious living accommodation includes:entrance hallway, kitchen, utility, dining room, and living room, 5 bedrooms (one en-suite) and family bathroom. Price Region: €245,000 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

FINAL OFFERS: -

3 Grecian View, The Walk Roscommon Town F42 F599

Looking to sell? We have buyers! Our services include: • Sales – Sell your home! • Lettings & Rentals • Property Management – We will manage all aspects of your rental property • Valuations – FREE pre-sale valuation No Sale – No Charge Web: www.kleavyauctioneer.com Tel. 071 96 34737

Quality 4 bedroom bungalow situated in a quiet cul-de-sac of just 5 properties. Located in a highly sought after mature residential area within walking distance to the town centre and all amenities. A rare opportunity to acquire a property in this area. Accommodation comprises:entrance hallway, sitting room, open plan kitchen/dining area with utility, toilet and whb off, 4 large bedrooms (master ensuite) and family bathroom.

Church Street, Roscommon town, CO. ROSCOMMON TEL: 090 6627878 FAX: 090 6627877 E-mail info@oates.ie Website: www.oates.ie

The Manse, Northgate Street, Athlone, CO. WESTMEATH TEL: 090 6477500 FAX: 090 6477546 E-mail athlone@oates.ie Website: www.oates.ie

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

Classifieds

Everyone wants it Everyone reads it 80,000 PEOPLE READ OUR NEWSPAPER EVERY WEEK!

To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

ACCOUNTS McGOWAN ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES Catering for: • Individuals • Sole Traders, Partnerships & Companies • VAT, RCT, PAYE/PRSI, Financial Control, Completion of annual tax returns First consultation FREE, can meet clients outside office hours Provides training for start your own business and basic computers and accounting. Also training in Thesaurus accounting products

‘YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR BUSINESS’ Contact Nuala

090 66 25818 086 0352849 Email: mcgacco@gmail.com Web: www.mcgowanaccounting.com

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS GROUP MEETINGS Hannon’s Hotel, Athlone Road, Roscommon town Tuesdays, 9.00pm Thursdays, 1.00pm Saturdays, 8.30pm Sundays, 12 noon

Tel: 01 4538988 or 091 767777

CHIMNEY CLEANING

CHIROPODIST

PODIATRIST

For all foot ailments Siobhan Murray BSc (Hons) Podiatry M.Ch.S.I.

Department of Health Approved

Cloonchambers, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon For appointment: (094) 96 21647 / (089) 4142233 • Home visits • 20 years experience

PODIATRIST/ CHIROPODIST Mark Kilgallon B.Sc Podiatry (Hons) M.Ch.S.I.

Department of Health Approved

EVERY FRIDAY St. Joseph’s Resource Centre, Boyle For appointment

085 1503353 086 8538404

Email: m.kilgallon23@gmail.com

• House Visits • Insoles and Orthotics Prescribed • Chiropody Services

(Monday to Saturday) Also available in Boyle & Athlone -------Chiropody treatment and all aspects of Foot Pain. Orthotics prescribed

087 2982214

• Power brush and vacuum technology for cleaning chimneys, stoves, ranges and open fires

• Removes up to 50% more than traditional methods • Firebacks replaced and flues repaired • Can be cleaned from the bottom up • Chimney cowels and crow guards fitted Power washing and gutter cleaning services. Telephone:

087 2798704

ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC

COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY

Specialising in:

• BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LIMB PAIN

Telephone: 086 8433433

Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon. David Connor

BSC (Hon.) Chiro. MSc. Chiropractic Association of Ireland

VHI and Laya Covered

CONSTRUCTION Stephen Casey

Construction l

l General Building Extensions & Roofing l Groundworks l Renovations

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

087 9268424 stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

FOOT CLINIC ROSCOMMON – MOLLOYS PHARMACY

Tel: Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

Chimney Cleaning

COUNSELLING

Clinics also in Ballaghaderreen and Castlebar

By Appointment Only –

Complete Chimney Services

CHIROPRACTOR

Are you affected by Anger Issues, Bullying, Bereavement, Confidence/self-esteem issues, OCD, Stress, Depression, Eating disorders Panic/Anxiety, Relationships, Exam pressure, Sexual Abuse Contact: Billy 094 96 59966 Mobile: 086 0675433 or visit www.billybrogan.com

COMPUTERS DC Computer Services Providing IT services for Homes, Businesses & Schools. Home Callouts.

NO FIX NO FEE

PC Maintenance – Upgrades, Repairs, Virus & Spyware removal. Network Solutions – Cabling, Hardware & Software Installation & Maintenance. Contact David Conboy Tel: 087 7496459

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

COUNSELLING Are you experiencing difficulties in your life? Such as depression, anxiety, life or spiritural crisis. Are you having difficulties in relationships at work? Have you experienced sexual abuse or abuse and need counselling to help you? Please call Glynis on

085 2514394

email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

Paul McStay DSA/ADI (UK) RSA

MIAM ROSPA Approved Driving Instructor Former BSM Driving Instructor and UK advanced Met. Police Driver. GIFT VOUCHER CARDS AVAILABLE Castlerea & Roscommon

EDT Lessons Available Telephone:

094 96 20099 Mobile:

Email: info@dccomputerservices.ie Web: www.dccomputerservices.ie

COUNSELLING

DRIVING LESSONS

FENCING/GATES

FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD For all your fencing needs. Glas Fencing Grant Fencing Post Rail

l l

Tel: 087 2172281

Des Kelly Fencing Over 20 years in business All types of fencing supplied and erected Including: • Cresoted Posts • Agricultural Fencing • Site Fencing • Security Fencing • Post & Rail Fencing • Concrete Fencing • Grant Approved Fencing No job too big or too small Just give us a call on

087 2346364

086 8936012

This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation

Learn to drive with ....

Roscommon Driving School Telephone:

090 66 61102 Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

FARMING < ABATTOIR SERVICE AVAILABLE: Cattle, lambs and pigs. Ready for freezing. Home Cured and Honey Dry cured traditional bacon (not pumped with water) now available. Tel: Webb’s Butcher’s, 094 96 20005 or 086 4094715.

FOR SALE < FOR SALE: Beko Washing in good condition. Also Raleigh Bicycle in good condition. Tel. 087 6216890. < FOR SALE: Lawnmower. B&S engine. Good working order. Tel. 086 2230900.

FARMING BOOM SPRAYER TESTING SERVICE • Sprayers tested on owners premises • Test report & D.A.F.M. stickers provided. • Small stock parts fitted on site (if necessary) Dept. of Agriculture regulations. From 2020 all sprayes are required to be tested every 3 years Contact: Thomas Neilan on 087 2395171 or 090 6663069 e-mail: thomasneilan4@gmail.com D.A.F.M. Approved Reg No: EL000083

THANKSGIVINGS A PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN OUR LADY OF MOUNT CARMEL O most beautiful Flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendour of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me this my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. O Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succour me in this necessity; there are none that can withstand your power. O, show me herein you are my Mother, O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. (3 times) Sweet Mother, I place this cause in your hands. (3 times). M.M THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you this special one, (mention favour). Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never known to fail. Must promise publication of prayer. A.H. THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you this special one, (mention favour). Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never known to fail. Must promise publication of prayer. A.D. PRAYER TO OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP Mother of Perpetual Help, you have been blessed and favored by God. you became not only the Mother of the Redeemer, but Mother of the redeemed as well. We come to you today as your loving children. Watch over us and take care of us. As you held the child Jesus in your loving arms, so take us in your arms. Be a mother ready at every moment to help us. For God who is mighty has done great things for you, and God’s mercy is from age to age on those who love God. Intercede for us, dear Mother, in obtaining pardon for our sins, love for Jesus, final perseverance, and the grace always to call upon you, Mother of Perpetual Help. Oh Mother of Perpetual Help, grant that I may ever invoke your powerful name, the protection of the living and the salvation of the dying. Purest Mary, let your name henceforth be ever on my lips. Delay not, Blessed Lady, to rescue me whenever I call on you. In my temptations, in my needs, I will never cease to call on you, ever repeating your sacred name, Mary, Mary. What a consolation, what sweetness, what confidence fills my soul when I utter your sacred name or even only think of your! I thank the Lord for having given you so sweet, so powerful, so lovely a name. But I will not be content with merely uttering your name. Let my love for your prompt me ever to hail you Mother of Perpetual Help. Mother of Perpetual Help, pray for me and grant me the favor I confidently ask of you. {mention your petition}; {three Hail Marys}. Our Lady of Perpetual Help, pray for us! L.S.

GARDENING GATELY GARDENING

Four Roads, Co. Roscommon • Landscaping • Timber Decking • Patios • General Maintenance Contact Liam on 086 8749550 or 090 66 27496

• Certified Arborists • Tree Surgery • Dangerous Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Leylandii hedges reduced and shaped Comprehensive Insurance Cover. I.S.A. member.

Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165

www.parklawntreeservices.

JOE HEALY

Tree Services

• Hedge Cutting • Dangerous Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Fully Insured

Phone:

087 2721193 WALTER BEGLEY

Gardening, Maintenance & Painting Roscommon Town • Indoor & Outdoor Painting • Winter Garden Clean-Up • Power Washing Driveways - Paths • Prepare Lawns for Spring • Hedge Trimming • Planting • Grass Cutting • General Maintenance

Contact Walter on 087 9519873 < GARDENING SERVICE: Overgrown shrubs and hedges, cut back and mulched. Contact 086 2437376

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

Classifieds GARDENING

CORBETT

TREE CARE & LANDSCAPING

l General Maintenance Dangerous Tree Removal l Garden Hedges & Trees reduced and shaped l Wood Chipping l Fully Insured Contact Alan on

087 6558597

www.corbetttreecareandlandscaping.com

To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

PROPERTIES TO LET/RENT/WANTED CHAZEY PROPERTIES: We require properties for waiting tenants, we advertise, conduct viewings, arrange references, read meters, set up tenancy agreements and arrange direct debit payments straight into your bank. We charge a one off fee only if we are successful in renting your property. If not no fees are payable. Tel: 086 8212732

< TO LET: 2-bed or 3-bed apartment. Fully furnished. Private parking. Quiet area in Roscommon town. Tel. 086 8538519.

€4,200

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic Movement Matters

Waldron Lawnmowers

Tel. 086 7866774 GARDENING SERVICES Including: • Hedge Cutting • Hedge Planting • Grass Cutting • Spraying • Strimming • Weeding • Garden Tidy-ups • Planting • Gutter Cleaning, etc. Chainsaw work also available

Phone John on

087 2860428 HOLISTIC JOAN MOORE Therapy Rooms • Sports Massage • Deep Tissue Massage • Reflexology • Indian head Massage • Reiki • Aromatherapy • Dry needling • Thai Massage Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon

087 9201818

Gift vouchers now available

Find us on facebook

20 years experience treating babies to adults. Everyday aches & pains to sports injuries. Physical Therapy CranioSacral Therapy Medical Dry Needling Prescription Orthotics Pilates – Small Classes

Can we help you? Call us today to enquire 090 663 0009 Like us on Facebook www.rosptc.com 1 Castleview, Roscommon F42 C902

PAINTING & DECORATING

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING & DECORATING CONTRACTOR For all your decorating needs CONTACT JOHN

086 4679798 PAINTER & DECORATOR Private & Commercial Power washing 25 years experience Free Estimates Given

Phone Alan on:

090 6661635 or Mobile:

087 2683079

PAINTING & DECORATING

PROFESSIONAL PAINTER AVAILABLE FOR ALL EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR PAINTING

Tried & Trusted Since 1993

Phone JOHN

083 8838022

USEFUL SERVICES Storage facility available in Ballyfarnon (Close to Boyle and Carrick on Shannon areas). Ideal for storing belongings for personal or business reasons. Short or long term contracts. Keen rates. Available from late September 2020. Tel. 087 6591787.

USEFUL SERVICES

DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIRS: WASHING MACHINE, REPAIRS, DISHWASHER REPAIRS, OVEN AND TUMBLE DRYER REPAIRS Contact Paul on 086 0538977 087 4046478 071 9664207 www.appliance-repairs.ie

Evo Roofing & Guttering Experts CONNAUGHT AREA

Call on 091 734122 or 085 1240639 evoroofingandguttering.com

• All types of roof repairs • Gutter cleaning from €49 • PVC fitted • Roof moss removal • Chimney repairs • Power washing • Ridge Piping • Lead valley repair • New tiles • Quality work, guaranteed

No job too big or too small

DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED PERMIT NO: NW CPO - 09 - 03267 - 03

< ELECTRICIAN AVAILABLE: Rewires, first and second fix new houses, fuse board upgrade. All farm buildings and sheds, security lighting and garden lights. Tel: Tom on 086 0815802

Electrician Available Safe Electric Registered. Domestic and Industrial, All work considered. No Job too small. Phone Paul 086 2553153 or 090 666 3053 or Email p0862553153@ gmail.com.

Concrete and Paving Work carried out Walls built, etc. Tel. 086 3293010

< THIS WEEK’S SPECIAL OFFERS: • Bags of seasoned firewood only €2 per bag• Bags of turf only €2.50 per bag, buy 20 get 2 free • Tonne bags firewood/turf €35 per bay, or buy tonne firewood + tonne turf + 2 bags coal 20kg all for €80 delivered. • Stove coal 40kg bags only €14, buy 10 bags get 1 20kg bag coal free. • 8x4 trailer load firewood only €90. All includes free delivery. Contact Tom: 086 2628439

SITUATIONS VACANT

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

< CHILDMINDER WANTED, max 4 days per week to mind 3 children ages 2,5,8 in minder or childrens home must drive as pick up from school a necessity. Please contact Nichola on 0876674161. < HONEST, RELIABLE person required to assist lady with shopping and light housework 1 to 2 days per week. Must be car owner and help with minimum personal hygiene. Frenchpark area. Te. 087 4574257. < KIND, RELIABLE carer required to care for elderly lady in lady’s own home in the Creggs/Athleague/Ballygar area. Applicant must be eligible for Carers Allowance, funded by Dept. of Social Protection. References required. Apply to PO Box no. 2019, c/o Roscommon People newspaper, Abbey Street, Roscommon. < CHILDMINDER REQUIRED to mind 2 children aged 5 & 3 in their own home 1 day a week, will require school runs in Athleague. Contact 087 7452038”

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

< TURF FOR SALE: In tonne bags, delivery to Roscommon town and surrounding areas. Price €50. Bag and delivery also included in price. Tel: 086 8534011

WANTED: Fallen trees for firewood. Ash, Beech, Birch and Whitethorn. We are safety certified and insured. Phone:

086 2437376

< GOOD QUALITY 10’x6’ loads of turf. Can be delivered. Also bags of turf. Tel. 086 3776948.

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Val and Loretta Cunningham, intend to apply for planning permission to construct an extension to existing dwelling at Meehanbee,Drum, Co. Roscommon. The development will consist of a modified front façade and extension to rear of existing single storey dwelling all on site at, Meehanbee,Drum, Co. Roscommon. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, (20e) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

PLANNINGS

Design Consultation Planning Applications New Build, Extend, Renovate Bespoke Design Domestic, Commercial & Agricultural

086 3482387 info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, John & Una Fannon, intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for construction of dwelling house & domestic garage, installation of sewage treatment system & percolation area, plus all ancillary works at Ballinderry, Four Mile House, Roscommon. The Planning Application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the Application and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: MoleskinArchitecture Mote Park, Roscommon, +353 86 348 2387, moleskinarchitecture.com facebook.com/ moleskinarch ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Niall McGinley, intend to apply for permission for development at Creggane, Cornafulla, Athlone, County Roscommon. The development will consist of the construction of a new five bedroom, one and a half storey dwelling house, new septic tank and all associated site development works.

The Planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee (€20) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Sean Lohan and Aisling Whelan Higgins, intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct single storey dwelling, domestic garage, proprietary effluent treatment system and percolation area, associated site development works and services at Ballinderry, Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Gaynor Architecturral + Design Services Ltd., Architects, Fallon Avenue, Roscommon. Tel. 090 6626974 or 086 8115449. The Planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee (€20) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Declan and Fiona McDermott, intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to revise site boundaries to dwelling previously granted planning permission under p&d ref 07/2145 at Willsborough, Ballinlough, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Gaynor Architecturral + Design Services Ltd., Architects, Fallon Avenue, Roscommon. Tel. 090 6626974 or 086 8115449. The Planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee (€20) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Hanly Quarries Limited, intend to apply for permission for development at a site in the townlands of Cuilreevagh and Largan, Elphin, Castlerea, Co Roscommon. The development will consist of two no extensions to the south and west of the existing quarry with a combined area of 8.60ha. An environmental impact assessment report has been prepared in respect of the proposed development and will be submitted to the planning authority with the application. The planning application and environmental impact assessment report may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing made on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

AtYourService CHIMNEY REPAIRS

To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

Chimney Problems

SHOWROOM:

Racecourse Road, Roscommon

Dooley Chimney Repairs • Lining

WE SUPPLY & FIT Double & Treble Glazed Windows & Doors, Patio Doors, French Doors, Porches and Conservatories WIDE RANGE OF COMPOSITE DOORS

• Relining • Rebuilding • CCTV Camera Inspection

uPVC Window and Door Locksmith We are the only Licensed Window and Door Locksmith in Roscommon

Cathal Dooley 087 6579064

20 Years Experience Free Insurance Quotes

Telephone: 090 66 33026

Nationwide Service Stoves and Ranges Fitted All Work Guaranteed

BLINDS

www.roscommonwindows.ie

WINDOW AND DOOR REPAIRS

Window and Door Repairs BRENDAN DOOLIN

Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds.

• Door Handles • Door Locks • Letterboxes • Window Hinges • Patio Door Repairs • Misted and Double Glazed Units • Reseal Windows and Doors

WINDOW AND DOOR SERVICE

DOOR & WINDOW SERVICE

Supply and fit uPVC Doors and Windows ONLY TOP QUALITY PRODUCTS USED Composite Doors, French Doors, Patio Doors in a wide range of styles and colours Also various styles and colours of uPVC Windows

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

Full replacement service provided and all work carried out to a high quality finish

REPAIRS & SERVICING ALSO CARRIED OUT

Tel: 090

9673336 2678350

Mob: 086 Email:

info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie

INSTALLATION

Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation

New Buildings & Retrofit Call in or contact us for free advice and quotes

Ballybane Industrial Estate, Unit 2, Ballybrit Industrial Block 12, Galway H91 P5k5 Estate, Galway

091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie

www.ecowise.ie

AFTER HOURS/24 HOUR EMERGENCY

087 2596055

086 6002721

Email: pjmhanley@gmail.com

All NCT Failures Destruction Certs Issued l Sale of Second Hand Parts l Contracted to all Major Car Companies l Farm Machinery, Old Gates l Metals, Iron Baths l Old Cooking Ranges l Weighbridge on Site

CAREER COACHING: * CV ADVICE AND TAILORING TO JOB SPECS * COMPETENCY BASED APPLICATION FORMS (inc. public sector) * INTERVIEW MASTERING (inc. competency-based) PERSONAL COACHING: * BECOME MORE ASSERTIVE & BUILD YOUR CONFIDENCE! * HELP TO COPE WITH AND EMBRACE CHANGE (e.g. retirement, new job, separation etc) * FIND YOURSELF STUCK IN A RUT? - (take back control and explore options!)

YOU MUST CALL IN ADVANCE TO ORDER REPEAT PRESCRIPTIONS

OR email your enquiry to carolinebburke@gmail.com

Ring us from your car when you arrive for collection of your order/appointment. We ask that all payments be made by card if possible and encourage payment over the phone when ordering medication/food. While on the premises we ask all customers to observe the 2m rule at all times.

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED ALSO DRAIN JETTING SERVICE

Contact Maurice on 086 2538169 or Kenneth on 086 8044030 Gannon Environmental Services Ltd.

6621220

KENNELS & CATTERY

For appointment call me on 086 8229606

CLEANING

S tephen H oare

Cleaning Services • Roscommon • Carpets & Upholstery Cleaning • WINDOW CLEANING • POWER WASHING Fascias & Soffits • Gutters & Down pipes • Drive ways ‘paths and patios’ KEEN and COMPETITIVE PRICES

M: 086 3912396 Ph: 090 66 62892 LOCKSMITH

Chris’s Locksmith Service l

Castlerea Vehicle Recycling l

PHONE: 086 8229606

EDUCATION COACHING: * HELP YOU CHOOSE THE RIGHT COURSE/MAKE A BETTER MORE INFORMED DECISION THAT IS RIGHT FOR YOU

RECYCLING

CAROLINE BURKE COACHING

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR CUSTOMERS FOR THEIR CO-OPERATION AND UNDERSTANDING DURING THESE DIFFICULT WEEKS

to discuss your requirements

RECYCLING OF END-OF-LIFE VEHICLES

Springfield, Williamstown, Co. Galway Window restrictors l Burglary repairs l Window locks l Cylinder replacement l Hinge replacement l Glass replacement l Lock replacement l Window and door seals l Window and door handles supplied and fitted l Aluminium and uPVC doors and windows repaired.

Te l : 0 8 5 2 1 9 1 2 3 4

email: chrislocksmith.162@gmail.com 08383

RECYCLING ALL TYPES OF METAL

C astlerea ELV Recycling Ltd ., Cloonkeen, Castlerea Kevin & Martina Keenan Tel: 094 96 21250 Mob: 086 2522231

DRILLING SERVICE Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, SIGA Airtightness

LANESBORO STREET, ROSCOMON Tel: 090 662 6898

Tel: 090

Contact Pat Hanley on

- CCTV Camera Inspection For Professional For Professional Advice Contact Advice Contact: John Hibbitt:

ALL CREATURES VETERINARY

Contact David Martin on 087 9959417

Tel: 090 66 30521 Mobile: 086 8115928

- Chimney Repairs - Soot & Smoke Problems - Demolish, Re Build & Re Flue Line - Chimney Fires - Flexible Stainless Steel Liner - Insurance Claims processed

LIFE COACH

VETERINARY

WINDOWS/DOORS

Chasing / Core Drilling Service Domestic & Commercial Prompt Service | Keen Rates | Fully Insured

Call John 087 610 8499

FARMING

To have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every week advertise with us!

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE TEL: (090) 96 88606 (090) 96 88830 or (090) 96 87651 Lowest price guaranteed Daily collection

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

Classifieds

To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES FALLON MARY

McCORMACK JJ

WALSH Mary

Cartron, Four Mile House, Co. Rocommon 3rd June, 2020

Ballybrogan, Lecarrow, Co. Rocommon Who died on the 16th of July 2019 (1st Anniversary)

On Mary’s Birthday Remembrance (19th July), her husband Michael, children Marie, Michael, Seamus, Deirdre, Siobhan, Elaine and grandchildren, together with our extended family would like to acknowledge and convey our heartfelt thanks and appreciation for the expressions of sympathy and support shown to us at the time of our great loss and the period since. Your love, kindness and prayers conveyed to us during this difficult time will always be remembered. We are extremely thankful to our wonderful family and friends for your continuous and unparalleled love and support. Those who sent Mass cards, enrolments, sympathy cards letters, telephoned and messages of condolences from far and near. We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to Roscommon Pallative Care Service. Thank you to Ursula, Caroline, Martina and Deirdre, for your care of Mary, carried out with incredible dignity. Thank you for being with Mary and helping her stay at home during her final weeks to be as comfortable as possible. Deepest gratitude to Dr. Elizabeth Sweeney McSharry and her staff at Family Care Practice, Roscommon. We are truly indebted to Dr. Elizabeth for her guidance, care, considerate compassion, warmth and empathy while assisting us in caring for Mary in our family home with the utmost respect at all times. We are eternally grateful for supporting us, going above and beyond at such a heart-breaking time during Mary’s final weeks. We will forever cherish the special moments we got with Mary due to Dr. Elizabeth’s extra special care. To the management and staff at McGuinness’ Total Health, many thanks for your help and support with Mary’s medical needs. Sincere thanks to Smyths Funeral Directors for their utter professionalism, attention to detail, care and respect in the kind handling of Mary’s funeral arrangements. Thanks to Fr Pravin Dhason for celebrating Mary’s Funeral Mass and officiating her burial and also for attending our home offering prayers and rosary at the difficult time following Mary’s passing. We are truly appreciative of our relatives, friends, neighbours and the community who supplied food and catering to our home, providing help, support and kind gestures during such difficult circumstances due to covid restrictions. To our neighbours and friends for their guard of honour as Mary’s remains left her home and to all who lined the roads on her final journey, we thank you sincerely. We offer thanks to Mary’s many friends during her lifetime for their continued friendship and kindness shown through regular visits to our home or keeping in touch throughout her brief illness, providing emotional and practical support. Finally, to those who helped in any way, your contribution has not gone unnoticed and has made our loss a little more bearable through your comforting efforts. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our heartfelt gratitude. A daily thought, a silent tear, A constant wish that you were here. An empty place no one will fill, we miss you Mary and always will. You were always there with a helping hand, to listen, advise and understand. Your pleasures were small and your wants were few. If your family was happy, so were you.

5 St Theresa’s Terrace (9th Anniversary) Treasured memories of Maurice Naughton, late of 5 St. Theresa’s Terrace, Roscommon, who died on 17th July 2011. RIP A silent thought A quiet prayer For someone special In God’s care.

Galway Road and formerly The Railway Bar, Abbeytown, Roscommon Town, Roscommon Who passed away on the 29th May 2020

NAUGHTON Maurice

JJ’s heartbroken wife Chris and family wish to express our deep gratitude to all who sympathised with us on the recent sad loss of a dear husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, grand uncle and friend to everyone who knew him. We offer our heartfelt thanks to everyone who sent mass cards, enrolment certificates, floral tributes, phone messages, phone calls, beautiful letters and all who expressed their sympathy and wonderful memories on rip.ie and various other social media forums. As JJ passed away during the lockdown, we thank you for your understanding of the requirements and restrictions necessary due to covid19. Thank you to our many relatives, neighbours and friends for your kindness, help and support. A special thanks to those who brought food and refreshments. Your kindness and thoughtfulness will never be forgotten. We would like to thank everyone who came out and stood as a mark of respect along the road from our house to the church and as the cortege made its way to JJ’s final resting place in Ballinderry. Thank you to everyone who gathered outside St Brigid’s church and Ballinderry Cemetery especially relatives and friends who travelled long distances. Thank you to our friends in Kilbride Parish, Kilbride Community shop and centre, and staff and parents of Scoil Bhríde who formed a Guard of Honour. Your presence was very much appreciated by us all. Our most sincere thanks to Fr. Raymond Browne for attending the family home on the eve of JJ’s passing, for his prayers and spiritual guidance which brought great comfort to JJ and the whole family. Thank you for celebrating JJ’s funeral mass and for the wonderful homily. Our sincere thanks also to Deacon Seamus for co celebrating the funeral mass so beautifully and for officiating in Ballinderry cemetery. A special word of thanks to Dr. Valerie Morris who cared for JJ so well over the years and during his recent illness. To Dr. Tom Donnegan, all the staff at the Primary Care Medical Centre, Roscommon Palliative Care team, Dr. O’ Mara and staff in Roscommon University Hospital, our sincere thanks for your kindness and care for JJ during his very short illness. Thank you also to the wonderful staff of Portiuncula and Galway University Hospital for their excellent care. To David Hynes and staff of Hynes Pharmacy, thank you for your great service and help. Thank you to Pat and Gillian Smyth of Smyth Undertakers for your professionalism and kindness. We would also like to express our sincere thanks to the gravediggers who prepared JJ’s final resting place and to Hazel Murray for her beautiful music and singing at the funeral mass. As we cannot thank you all individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our appreciation and gratitude. JJ’s months mind mass will be offered in St. Brigid’s Church, Four Mile House, Roscommon on Sunday 19thJuly at 11am.

Notice re. Memoriams and Anniversaries If you wish to place acknowledgements, memoriam notices, birthday and anniversary remembrances, please email them to advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

Mary is sadly missed by her family and friends.

or call us on 090 6634633

Mary’s months mind mass will be offered in Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday 01st August 2020 at 7.00pm

or by post, along with your name and contact details, to Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

Always remembered by his loving family.

The family of the late Mary Walsh would like to express our thanks and appreication to all who sympathised with us on our sad loss. We extend of sincere gratitude to all from near and far who visited our home, attended the Removal, Funeral Mass and Burial and to those who sent Perpetual Enrolments, Mass Cards, letters of sympthy and floral tributes. We would like to thank Doctor Carmel Robinson, General Practitioner for the excellent care given by her to Mary over the years. We express our heartfelt gratitude to Father Ray Milton, PP, Father Evaristus and Father Justice, who concelebrated Mary’s Funeral Mass. Thanks to the Altar Society for the lovely floral arrangements in the Church. Also, sincere thanks to Aileen Connor and Alistair Beegan for their beautiful music and singing. Many thanks to Mary’s former camogie teammates for their Guard of Honour at her funeral. A special word of thanks to our good neighbours who kindly prepared Mary’s final resting place. Our thanks to Smyth’s Funeral Directors for their kindness and professionalism. Pleace accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our gratitude to each of you. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentins. Mary’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. John’s Church, Lecarrow on Sunday the 19th of July at 11.30 am.

DONNELLY Charlie

FEERICK Bridie Late of Four Mile House (15th Anniversary)

In loving memory of a dear wife, mother and grandmother Who died on 10th of July 2005 You are always in our thoughts and prayers.

Missed and lovingly remembered by John and family. Anniversary Mass in Four Mile House Church, on Friday 17th July at 8pm.

BEIRNE Denis Lus Leana, Roscommon (7th Anniversary)

Muckloon, Ballyforan, Co. Galway (1st Anniversary) In loving memory of a dear husband, and a wonderful Dad, who died on 26th July 2019. In loving memory of Denis Beirne who died on July 15th, 2013

Time goes by And life goes on But from our thoughts You are never gone There are moments in life when you wish you could bring someone down from Heaven, Spend one more day, just one more time, give one more hug, to hear your voice again, kiss you goodbye, one more chance to say, I love you, Dad. They say there is a reason, they say that time will heal, But neither time nor reason, will change the way we feel. Gone from home that smiling face, those cheerful, happy days The heart that won so many friends, in bygone happy days Sometimes I just look up, smile and say, I know that was you... Miss you so much, Dad. x.

Anniversary Mass on Saturday, 18th July at 7.30pm in St. Patrick’s church, Dysart. We also remember Charlie’s daughter, Carole, who’s anniverary is on 31st of July. Will those who think of Carole today, A little prayer to Jesus say. x

Always loved by Willie, Mairead and extended family and friends. Anniversary Mass in Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Derrane on Saturday, 18th July at 7pm.

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

Classifieds

To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES SNYPE Mike & Gretta (nee Madden) Hollywell, Derrane, Co. Roscommon

(18th Anniversary)

SMYTH Eithne Weekfield, Roscommon. In loving memory of Eithne, who died on the 20th July 2004. R.I.P. (16th Anniversary)

Always remembered by your family, friends and neighbours. May they Rest In Peace.

O’DONOVAN Paddy and Margaret Park Head, Celtic Avenue, Roscommon (40th and 4th Anniversaries)

Treasured memories of our dear parents and grandparents. Paddy who passed away on 25th June, 1980 and Margaret who passed away on 14th July, 2016. No matter how life changes No matter what we do A special place within our hearts Is always kept for you.

Feeragh, Ballymurray, Co. Roscommon Who died in July, 1969 (51st Anniversary)

For our loving Dad...

The happy times we once enjoyed, how sweet their memories still, What it meant to lose you, God only knows. These are the memories you left behind, this world can never fill God bless you, Eithne, for those precious years.

Always remembered by your your husband Johnny. Anniversary Mass in the Church of the Holy Rosary, Ballyleague on Sunday 19th July at 11am.

DERVAN John

LANGAN David

Muckinagh, Ballygar, Co. Galway. (2nd Anniversary) Died 13th July 2018.

11 St. Ciarans Park, Roscommon. Who died on the 20th of July 1993 (27th Anniversary)

Will those who think of him today, A little prayer to Jesus say.

Always remembered by your loving wife Kathleen, sons, daughters, grandchildren and extended family.

Dear Padraic, Gone but not forgotten. It broke our hearts to lose you. But you did not go alone, for part of us went with you. The day God, welcomed you Home.

Always loved and missed by your mam Kathleen, dad Patsy, sister Marie and brother Alan. Mass will be offered at a later date.

Mountdillon,Curraghroe, Co. Roscommon (3rd Anniversary)

Missed by son Desmond, daugthers, sons-in-law, children and grandchildren. Also, remembered is our wonderful mother, Elizabeth.

Rooskey

Mum you are missed so much.

And our kind and gentle, Peggy. Sadly missed by your loving husband, Des, your children, grandchildren and extended family.

Mobile: 087 2365453 Landline: 071 9638739 email: jrrogers40@hotmail.com

Rest in peace together, for ever, Amen.

BURKE Damian CARTY Joey

Cloonfad, Ballyhaunis, Co. Roscommon 21st July, 2014 (6th Anniversary)

Ballydooley, Donamon Thinking of you with love, Joey, on this your 11th Anniversary, July 19th

(Dromod) In conjunction with Cox’s Funeral Directors (Rooskey) Serving the people of Dromod, Rooskey and surrounding areas for the past 35 years Full range of coffins, caskets etc. in stock, together with our personally owned fleet of funeral vehicles

For further information contact

In loving memory of our darling daughter and sister Clare, who died on 16th July 2017 It broke our hearts to lose you, but you did not go alone. A part of us went with you, the day God took you home. If tears could build a stairway, and heartaches make a lane, we’d walk our way to heaven, and bring you back again. In life we loved you dearly, in death we love you still, in our hearts you hold a place no one could ever fill

Rogers Funeral Directors

Mass on Saturday 18th Juy in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery at 7pm

FLYNN Clare

Always loved and never forgotten by Mary, John, Anne, Paul, Simon, Eoin and Tara.

May he rest In Peace, forever in our hearts. Anniversary Mass in St. Mary’s Church Ballygar on Saturday, 18th of July at 7.30pm.

6, Shannon Heights, Ballyleague Who died on the 17th of July 2016 (4th Anniversary)

MURPHY Thomas

(19th Anniversary)

Cherished memories of our dear parents. You always had a smile to share. A laugh, a joke and time to care. A wonderful nature warm and true. Those are the memories we have of you.

Those we love don’t go away, They walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near, Still loved, still missed, and very dear.

HANLEY Padraic

Days and years roll swiftly by, Precious memories will never die.

Lovingly remembered by your family and friends.

HARRIS Barrie Corlackin, Creggs, Roscommon (25th Anniversary)

Lovingly remembered by family and friends.

Time slips by and life goes on, But from our hearts you’re never gone, We think about you always, We talk about you too, We have so many memories, But we wish we still had you.

086-2561023/087-2318176 or 085-8643968

Visit our website www.mcgowanfuneraldirectors.ie

Love always & forever, Mam, Dad, Declan, Eugene, Amanda and your little niece Saorla, who is like you in so many ways Damian’s 6th anniversary mass will take place in St. Patrick’s Church, Cloonfad on Sunday 26th July at 10:30am Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed In loving memory of a dear husband and father, who died on 17th of July, 1995 Always remembered by Bina and family. Email or call for Sample Pack

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

Sports PEOPLE

TEAM TO BEAT: The Four Roads players celebrate with the Mickey Cunniffe Cup after winning the 2019 Roscommon Senior Hurling Championship in Athleague. Pic: Mick McCormack

Summer just got better… Welcome return to action as Kepak SHC begins < SEAMUS DUKE

It has been a summer like no other in living memory, but Roscommon GAA club action will begin this coming weekend as six of the seven clubs involved in the competition play in the opening round of the Kepak SHC. The circumstances may be different from anything we have seen in our lifetimes, but some things never change. Four Roads are still the team to beat after their impressive displays in last year’s championship. The Tisrara men are always the standard bearers in this competition – and this year is no different.

Four Roads Joe Mannion’s men still have an impressive array of talent including David Dowd, Cormac Coyle, Johnny Moran, Micheal Kelly, Shane Curley, Conor Coyle and Cathal Dolan. Johnny Coyne and Brendan Mulry are just some of the familiar names that we have become used to. The champions look especially strong up front.

Athleague Athleague will be hoping to improve on last year’s effort, but with Fuerty playing in the SFC, there will be pressure on their dual players. New

manager Padraig Mannion (from Ballygar) will have to juggle his resources with the footballers with the Bannons, Ben McGahon, Cian Murray, Robbie Fallon and the Lyons brothers (if fit) cases in point. Experienced players like Eamon Flanagan, Alan Moore, Gary Fallon, Niall Connolly, Pat Nolan and Robbie Fallon will have vital roles to play.

a couple of wins to kick-start their challenge but they open with a very difficult match against the champions this weekend. However, with the likes of Mickey Joe Egan and Naos Connaughton up front, they look strong in that department. Jack and Keith Doyle are also good performers with Micheal Beirne and Conall Kennelly on the county panel this year.

Padraig Pearses

Roscommon Gaels

Pearses are always an enigma in this competition. At their best they can compete with any of the rest, and they will be very keen to improve on last year when they were well beaten by Four Roads in the semi-final. Shane Sweeney takes the reins this year. The prolific Daniel Glynn is back from his travels but there are question marks over this fitness. Men like Cathal Kelly, Shane Naughton, Padraig Dolan and Eoghan Costello and a number of impressive youngsters will keep their challenge strong.

The town team haven’t really made progress over the past number of years but under new manager Pat Clancy they will be hoping for an improvement this year. They will be looking to Paul Lennon, Kenny Doolan and Luke Clogher and a host of young players for inspiration, but it is hard to see them emerging this year.

Oran The Rockfield club face the same problem as Athleague with their footballers also very strong and looking to win that elusive intermediate title. Cathal Kenny and Mark Gunning are back from abroad, but it’s likely that Thomas Fetherston will play just football this year. If Mike Fallon could get his best players on the field then Oran have plenty of talent to assist county player Hugh Rooney, but at the mo-

Athleague’s Robbie Fallon and Tremane’s Warren Boyle in action during the 2019 Kepak SHC semi-final in Athleague. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

ment they look a little below the likes of Four Roads and Pearses.

Tremane The half-parish side welcome Seamus Qualter as manager and he will be relishing this challenge. The fitness of Niall Kilroy could be an issue. He would be a huge loss if unavailable. Peter and Mike Kellehan are top class

players and Tremane always have a great spirit. They should win their opening game this weekend, against Roscommon Gaels.

St Dominic’s The Knockcroghery men have been improving in recent seasons and they could well be a dark horse under new manager Noel Moran. They need

* The commencement of action will be a welcome relief after months of inactivity. No dressing rooms can be used this weekend (prior to July 20th) and no cash will be taken on the turnstiles (as reported elsewhere in this sports section).

Fixtures This weekend’s fixtures are as follows: Tremane v Roscommon Gaels on Saturday in Tremane at 7 pm; Padraig Pearses v Oran on Sunday in Athleague at 1.30 pm; Four Roads v St. Dominic’s on Sunday in Ballyforan at 5 pm. Athleague have a bye this weekend.

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

SportsPeople

Short putts

(News from local golf clubs)

Castlerea

The members of Castlerea Golf Club are delighted to return to Club Competitions. We wish to acknowledge with great thanks, our loyal and very generous sponsors without whom our club would fail to exist. Our competing season was opened with a competition sponsored by the Kelly Henry Medical Centre. The results are as follows – Men: 1st: Keith Revins (39 pts), 2nd: Daryl Kelly (36 pts); Cat 1: Dara Bruen (34 pts); Cat 2: Mick Doyle (34 pts); Cat 3: Padraic Newman (34 pts); Ladies: 1st: Maura Tully (37 pts), 2nd: Laura Griffith (36 pts), 3rd: Valerie Callaghan (36 pts). On Thursday, the 4th of July, the ladies’ competition was sponsored by Sonas Beauty Clinic and the results are as follows – 1st: Ruth Sullivan (38 pts), 2nd: Laura Griffith (35 pts), 3rd: Valerie Rabbitt (35 pts). The first men’s competition of the season was played on Saturday and Sunday the 4th and 5th of July and sponsored by The Golden Eagle, also sponsors of the Ladies competition, played on Thursday, the 9th of July. The results of the ladies competition are as follows – 1st: Mary Kenny (34 pts), 2nd: Kay Condon (34 pts), 3rd: Jean Timothy (34 pts). The results of the men’s competition will be posted later in accordance with Covid-19 competition guidelines. On Sunday, the 19th of July, the men will compete for the Captain’s Prize 2020. We wish our Captain Liam Callaghan every good wish for his prize days.

Roscommon

This is a big week in the life of our Lady Captain, Dr. Sandra Black Kelly. In what has been a very eventful year so far, Sandra now embarks on her prestigious week of the year with a range of competitions for her Lady Captains competitions. We join together in wishing Sandra and her family the very best for a most enjoyable week. Prize dates are as follows: Monday, 13th July – 9-hole Qualifier Ladies; Tuesday, 14th July – Day 1 18-hole Strokeplay: Thursday, 16th July – Lady Captain’s Prize to Seniors; Friday, 17th July – Junior Girls (11 am to 12 pm); Saturday, 18th July – Day 2 18-hole Strokeplay and 9-hole competition (Men). Recent winners for the Men’s 18-hole club competition held on 12th July – 1st: Shane Killeen (42pts (15)), 2nd: Denis Smyth (41pts (11)), 3rd: Thomas Reddington (41pts (6)), Gross Simon Walker (36 gross pts). Recent winners for the Ladies 9-hole qualifying held on Monday, 6th July – 1st: Leah Lennon (20pts (9)), 2nd: Olivia Costello (19 pts (2)), 3rd: Ruth Lennon (16 pts (1)). Ladies Seniors – 1st: Joan Moran, 2nd: Marguerite Farrell. Our Men’s beginner golf competition continues on Monday evenings. Tee times available between 6 pm and 8 pm and competition will be played over 9 holes. Congratulations to Brian Cleary on his recent win in this competition. Open Competitions for ladies and gents have resumed on Wednesdays. Entry fee €5 for member, €15 for visitors. Book online or call 0894053856 to reserve your time. Another big day to look forward to on Sunday next, 19th July, when Club President Tresina Smyths will hold her Men’s Presidents Qualifier. Timesheet on BRS.

Roscommon GAA to stream club games Roscommon GAA have announced that they are to stream games from the Roscommon Club Championship this year. The initiative is a joint venture between Roscommon GAA and Nemeton, a television production company. Local GAA journalist Seamus Duke will be the match commentator. Roscommon County Board PRO Hugh Lynn

said: “The service will debut with the clash of Clann na nGael and St. Brigid’s on Saturday, July 25th at 7 pm, live and exclusive on Roscommon GAA Streaming, accessible via the Roscommon GAA website”. The games will have a cost of €5 and will be available to the purchaser to watch live and for a period of 30 days after the game is played.

Roscommon GAA Chairperson Seamus Sweeney said: “Some of the most loyal GAA people may find it difficult to attend games due to the Covid-19 regulations which are in place limiting crowds at games. Others may not feel safe in crowds, so to address this we have tried to ensure as many people as possible can get to sample the fare of Championship 2020”.

Roscommon GAA moves to cashless ticketing Photograph from the launch of the KEPAK Senior Hurling Championship earlier this year.

Roscommon GAA has announced details of a new cashless ticketing arrangement for the Roscommon GAA club hurling and football championships in 2020. The arrangement will see supporters purchasing tickets online before entry into any game. Seamus Sweeney, Roscommon GAA Chairman said: “Because of Covid-19 we need to be proactive in how we do our business. This partnership between Roscommon GAA and Future Ticketing will deliver many benefits. There will be less cash involved in our activities. We will be able to manage numbers at our games as per government guidelines. In addition, we will be able to provide a record of the attendance at our games to allow for contact tracing if required and it also helps to protect our volunteer staff on gate duties”. All club matches will be presold ticket only, starting with the Kepak Hurling Championships which throw in this week-

end and the football championships the weekend after. To purchase a ticket people will normally go to the Roscommon GAA website and click on the ‘buy match tickets’ link. This will guide the purchaser to the page where they fill in their details and card details and receive their tickets as an email to their email account. On match-day, tickets from either mobile phones or printouts will be scanned using high-tech laser mobile scanners at each venue in order to ensure that full contact

tracing information for all attendees will be available to statutory authorities should it be required. Since only 200 people are allowed at venues (including players and officials) Roscommon GAA are working with the participating clubs in this weekends games to distribute the tickets via the clubs. Each club will have 50 tickets to sell and any tickets which remain unsold will be returned to Roscommon GAA for general online sale. For the Football Championship, where it looks like a game

may sell out Roscommon GAA will make a number of tickets available via the two clubs first, before allowing the remainder to be sold to the general public. David O’Connor, Roscommon County Board Treasurer said: “Limited capacity means we must make difficult choices and our priority is always to ensure that we create as safe an environment as possible for all our supporters and to try to minimise as many risks as possible. With this in mind I respectfully request the cooperation of clubs and supporters at the venues. No ticket means no entry. By removing cash, we are reducing a risk of contamination and minimising the dangers for volunteers on the day and in advance”. Seamus Sweeney, Roscommon GAA Chairman added: “The limited capacity means that some people will be disappointed, but our system is designed to as much as possible facilitate our committed supporters”.

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

SportsPeople

Horses by Tom Red for Courses Today’s action is on the level at Leopardstown at 4.15pm featuring the Listed Nijinsky Stakes. Tomorrow evening the action over jumps is at nearby Kilbeggan first race at 4.45pm and on the flat at Limerick away at 4.15pm. Saturday flat racing is at the Curragh at 4.55pm featuring the Irish Oaks and The Kadies Derby. Racing also takes place over the sticks at Tramore with a 2.05pm start. On Sunday day 2 of the Curragh meeting features 3 Group 2 races starting at 2.00pm and jumping action with an all chase card at Tipperary at 2.20pm. On Monday racing returns west to Ballinrobe for 2 days with flat on Monday at 4.45pm and national hunt on Wednesday with a blank day on Tuesday. Gowran Park provides Monday’s jump action at 1.00pm and Naas race on the flat on Wednesday. Donnacha O’Brien’s Fancy Blue, who won the Prix de Diane at Chantilly last month, is among 12 confirmations for the Juddmonte Irish Oaks at the Curragh on Saturday but is more likely to wait for Goodwood’s Nassau Stakes at the end of the month. His father Aidan has 6 including Irish 1000 Guineas victor Peaceful and Ennistymon 2nd to stable in Epsom 1000 Guineas. Jessica Harrington has Cayenne Pepper 2nd to Magical in the Pretty Polly. Ger Lyons is triple handed with Lemista, Even So and Yaxeni. An outsider to consider is Joseph O’Brien’s New York Girl, 2½l behind Peaceful in the Curragh, an e/w possibility at 20/1. Daddy to win with Peaceful. Racing, this weekend, is televised on RTE 2 is from the Irish Oaks meeting at the Curragh on Saturday from 6.00pm to 8.00pm. Virgin Media One features live racing from Newbury and York from 1.30pm to 4.00pm.

Review of the Week

We did it! Thomas and Cillian Moran celebrating their team’s title win with Imelda Towey, Main Street, Ballaghaderreen. Picture: Michael McCormack

St Peter’s and Castlerea Celtic in title decider The Roscommon & District Soccer League resumes this weekend with a Premier Division title decider at McCarthy Park in Athlone when the defending champions St. Peter’s take on Castlerea

Celtic (7.30 pm). The home side must win the match to secure a third Premier title in a row while a draw or a win will see Castlerea regain the title they last held four years ago.

Darts

Sharp Sharkey! Online darts continued in the county this week with a Round Robin on Friday night. There were some great darts across the night. An in-form James Sharkey dominated in the group stage, where a clean sweep of wins booked his finals spot. Another in-form player – Paul Carton – had impressed, particularly with his finishing; three 100 plus finishes, highlighted by a 160 checkout along with two 180s showing off Carton’s form going into the final. The final was a tight affair, with 19 100+ scores between the players. However, it was to be Sharkey’s night as he went on to record a 4-3 win. Well done to both players on a great standard of darts throughout! Online darts will continue this week with a 9 pm start on Fridays. All you need to take part is two devices with Internet connection and a Facebook account you

can access. Laptops/smart phones or tablets will all work, with a lot of people making use of two phones in their house to take part. Even if your Internet is not top speed it is still possible to play. This is open to any players associated with the Roscommon Darts League or anyone living in County Roscommon who would like to give it a try. If you are interested, join the Roscommon Online Darts Facebook page where there is a full list of information. We are currently helping out people interested in taking part and doing practice runs online, so whether you are well experienced with computers or not there is help at hand – just join the group and get in contact! There is no cost, it’s purely just for practice and to keep in contact. Contact David on (086) 0823180 if you would like more information.

Freewheelin Dylan was a very game winner of The AXA Midlands National in a thrilling finish at Kilbeggan last Friday as he just held on by a nose from the fast finishing fav. Three Musketeers in controversial circumstances. Ricky Doyle made all on the Dermot McLoughlin trained 8-Y-O eight-year-old gelding, Gordon Elliott trained the runner-up and the third Swingbridge, 1½l away. Davy Russell tried to force his way up through an apparent gap on the rails and cut across The Big Lense and Liam Dempsey. Russell got 2 days ban for careless riding. The race was overshadowed by the loss of Yanworth who suffered a broken pelvis in running. The JP McManus owned 10-Y-O won his last race at Punchestown in November, The Risk Of Thunder Chase over the banks course. He was a dual Grade 1 hurdles winner at Kempton and Aintree. Fallon v Dettori in the Darley Cup at Newmarket last Saturday. Fallon wins out as Cieran Jr., on Oxted, beats his father’s old rival, on the Irish trained Sceptical, denied him victory in the only British Group 1 he has yet to win, having finished runner-up 3 times in the race. Fallon Sn never won the race either. A 7-race card in Roscommon on Tuesday opened with a 2m apprentice maiden hurdle won by the favourite The Honky Tonk ridden by Hugh Morgan for Henry de Bromhead who won by a head and ¾l from Lauderdale Lady and Earl Of Desmond. In the 2nd race just, a neck separated the joint favourites as The Very Man under Sean O’Keeffe held off Davy Russell on Recent Revelations, both horses trained by Gordon Elliott with Shamiyan 6½l away in 3rd. The third was won by Gavin Cromwell’s Bread And But-

ter who had 2 ¼ l and ¾ l to spare over Chasing Abbey and Dollar Value. The bumper provided the first relief for the layers as owner/trainer Sam Curling’s 33/1 shot Laureldean Cross beat Vartry Avenue and Big Jim Dwyer 1l and ½l.Gordon Elliott trained 1st and 3rd but his 14/1 outsider Make My Heart Fly beat Scheu Time the favourite I’m A Game Changer in conditions chase. In the Larry O’Farrelly Memorial Handicap Chase Stamp Your Feet from Enda Bolger’s won by 1 ¼ l and 1l from Roachedale House and Friary Gold. The closing Beginners Chase saw Charles Byrnes’ hot pot Doctor Duffy, 11/4 to 8/15, well beaten by the Denis Hogan trained Sean Flanagan ridden Macgiloney with All Quiet 3rd.

Racing News At the age of 40 jockey Barry Geraghty called time on his riding career last Saturday after 24 years. Geraghty rode his first winner for fellow Meath man trainer Noel Meade on Stagalier in a Down Royal maiden hurdle in January 1997 and his final was on Charli Parcs for Aidan Howard in Leopardstown in March this year. He rode 121 Grade 1 winners and will probably best remembered for his 2 wins in the Queen Mother on Moscow Flyer. He followed Tony McCoy as retained rider to The Sundance Kid, JP McManus and 2 of those Grade 1’s were won aboard the ill-fated Yanworth. He also rode an Aintree Grand National winner, Monty’s Pass, for Jimmy Mangan Co Wexford native jockey P J McDonald rode his 1,000th winner last Friday when Zabeel Champion trained by Mark Johnson won at Newmarket. He started riding in the point to point fields where he rode for Padge Berry before going to England where he won the Scottish Grand National in 2007 for Ferdie Murphy. He switched successfully to the flat and is retained rider for John Dance on whose Laurens he finished runner-up in the Newmarket 1000 Guineas and won 2 Group 1 races in France including a classic win in the French Oaks, the Prix de Diane in 2018. Donnacha and Aidan O’Brien have each been fined €2,500 and banned from attending racing for a fortnight for non-compliance with coronavirus health screening protocols, starting immediately. It follows a misunderstanding at the Curragh when they entered by a side gate with their paperwork in order, but were not challenged. Aidan received the same sanction, but it does not begin until Monday. The Laytown Races Committee, following consultation with the Gardai, Horse Racing Ireland and other interested bodies, have decided to cancel this year’s race meeting which was scheduled for Laytown strand on Tuesday September 1st. Former leading Irish National Hunt jockey in the 70’s and 80’s, Tommy McGivern, has passed away at the age of 62 after a short illness. Associated with Michael Cunningham’s stable he rode the likes of For Auction, Greasepaint and Irish Fashion. In 1980 he won the Aintree Chase, now the Red Rum Chase, on Drumgora, for Arthur Moore RIP. No prizes for this but I came across an interesting question this week. Do you know the link between Grand National winner Red Rum, Champion Hurdle Winner Sea Pigeon and Gold Cup winner Norton’s Coin, if so let me know at tomred17@gmail.com? Answer next week.

Freewheeling Dylan, yellow, Three Musketeers, red, cuts off The Big Lense as he tries to challenge up the inner

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

SPORTS PEOPLE with PAUL HEALY

‘The memories will never really fade. It all feels as beautiful today as it did then. Thanks Jack’ HEROES

As a Leeds United man, I had good reason to be a fan of Jack’s long before the unbelievable Irish dimension to his career. The caricature of Jack was shoddy: the narrative often being that he was a rough and tumble defender (bereft of any of the skills of his brother, Bobby) who had a simplistic style when he went into management. In actual fact, Jack was exceptionally knowledgeable about the game, and some people would say that the pressing game he advocated with Ireland is in vogue with some clubs in Britain right now. Back to Jack as player: the reality is that he was a magnificent footballer. He made a club record 762 competitive appearances for Leeds; won the World Cup as a member of the England team in ’66, AND was Footballer of the Year in 1967, at a time when Denis Law, George Best and Jimmy Greaves were around! His management career, pre-Ireland, was also, for the most part, impressive, with successful periods at Middlesbrough and Sheffield Wednesday. Famously, he was overlooked for the England job, a bit like the Queen overlooking that knighthood! England’s loss was Ireland’s gain. Charlton was a surprise appointment as Ireland manager in late 1985, and went on to lead our national team to those historic campaigns at Euro ’88, Italia ’90 and USA ’94. Our Charlton-inspired success inspired a new confidence in the country. Jack Charlton elevated the entire nation to new heights in a way that no politician or government could.

REFLECTIONS ON SPORTING INSPIRATIONS

Stuttgart (1988)

Republic of Ireland 1 England 0 My family, not for the first time, had moved house. Our parents had their sights on a new business venture. In the new house, the room with the TV in it (for now at least) was small. But there was enough space for that free to be lobbed forward, for Galvin to hook the cross in, for Aldridge to make the final assist, and for Houghton to make that timeless lunge forward with his head, putting the ball into the England net and his own name into history. In our new home, we almost knocked the telly over when we jumped off the sofa, stunned, delirious. Even our father, who wasn’t that interested in sport – well, not unless the participants each had four legs – knew the significance of this extraordinary moment. Our hearts raced, struggling with this unprecedented explosion of emotions. Almost 800 years into a low-in-confidenceagainst-the-Brits phase, we could barely process the enormity of what had just happened. Not even Taylor’s black against an ashen-faced Davis in ’85, or Coghlan’s grin to ‘The Russian’ in ’83, or McGuigan’s immortal downing of Pedroza in ’85, could match this. We had squeezed on to a sofa to watch Ireland face England in our opening match at our first ever major tournament, afraid to hope, conditioned to dread. And yet, Ray Houghton had just put the ball into the England net. Across Ireland, the feeling of joy, the release of emotions, was tribal. Ireland against England. ENGLAND! On the world stage. And Ray Houghton had put Ireland in front. 800 years. Now, 83 minutes of agony. When I wrote about Paul McGrath last week – observing that Jack Charlton had shown commendable man management skills with the star – little did I know that ‘Big Jack’ would ‘jump the queue’ amongst the names that remain on my ‘Heroes’ shortlist. Oh yes, make no mistake about it, Jack (and his Irish team) were on this list, ready to be slotted in when the mood took me…maybe when I felt I could justify another soccer entry in this series! Now, with Jack’s sad passing last weekend, the time is right. And one thing we can surely all agree on is this: Jack was and is a hero. The word ‘legend’ may indeed be overused these days, but it should have been stamped on Jack’s forehead. LEGEND, CHARACTER, GOOD GUY. I kind of like Queen Elizabeth, but she (or her advisers) have a lot to answer for, given that we’re not talking about Sir Jack (though it might not have suited him!).

Genoa (1990)

Republic of Ireland 0 Romania 0 (Ireland win 5-4 on penalties) ‘If a writer of schoolboy fiction had brought this scenario to his editor, he would have been told to go back to his desk and write something that readers might believe…I have never known the Irish followers to be so quiet in the immediate aftermath of yesterday evening’s game; they seemed like men and women and boys and girls who had seen something that was almost unbelievable and they were still trying to come to grips with it…I have never known so many happy people in Genoa and in Rapallo

‘Put ‘em under pressure’ last night. And I can only imagine the atmosphere in Dublin and all over the country. Nevertheless, life goes on and I have no doubt that down at home today the cows were milked and the pigs were fed and the children washed. We are now in the last eight of the World Cup – such mighty powers as the Soviets and Holland and Brazil are out. Football is surely a strange old game’ – Con Houlihan ‘What horse? What race? When? ALL of our wages? What if we lose? But yeah, it’s worth it…hold on, we’ll have another drink and think it through’ (Yes, Italia ’90 was driving the nation crazy. Another drink, and this idea would simultaneously sound crazier and more plausible. Ah, if Carlsberg made Monday afternoons in Ireland in 1990…). When people say Ireland went mad, crazy (take your pick) during Italia ’90, they really mean it. At the Roscommon Champion, the staff, en masse, gave serious consideration to travelling to Italy for Ireland’s World Cup quarter-final. This, despite the fact that few, if any of us, had enough money to even book a flight. Not to mention the problem of having to bring out a weekly newspaper. But, after Ireland beat Romania in a penalty shootout on a never to be forgotten Monday afternoon, we – like the whole nation – were floating on a wave of euphoria, excitement and fantastical dreams. We watched the Romania game in the Lyons Den in Roscommon. The atmosphere was fantastic, a combination of fear and excitement. Romania’s brooding and brilliant Hagi tormented us with his jinking runs, his vision, the menace of his magic. But we survived his onslaught, and played some good football of our own. 0-0. Extra-time. Penalties. Packie’s save. George Hamilton’s immortal line. ‘A nation holds its breath’. Just before that, shock as we discovered that David O’Leary would be taking our fifth penalty. If there had been a vote, we’d have voted no confidence in him. But David scored, and then disappeared, the Irish camp devouring the prodigal son of Irish football. We leapt and roared and probably cried. Someone said we HAVE to go to Italy for the quar-

ter-final. But we had no money. Then, like Baldrick in Blackadder, someone had a cunning plan. Let’s put Friday’s wages on a horse. If the horse wins, we have the funds to get to Rome. Because Ireland had gone crazy, we actually discussed this plan for an hour in the Lyons Den on a Monday afternoon. Finally, we abandoned it. Maybe, to paraphrase Con Houlihan, we realised that, just now, to be in Italy, not Ireland, was to almost miss this momentous adventure! When, a week or so further into the party, we lost 1-0 to Italy in a World Cup quarter-final, we weren’t in Rome, we were in the Lyon’s Den (we had gone back to work in the meantime). I know I shed a tear. Not so much from the heartbreak of Schillaci’s dream-killing strike, more so, I think, from sheer pride. The journey was over, but what a journey.

We’ll prepare and go, and do our best we’ll put ‘em under pressure The game is about being effective Being aggressive, winning the ball Getting on with the play Olé Olé Olé Olé, Olé Olé Olé Olé Olé Olé, Olé Olé

Giants Stadium (1994)

Just about every night, in every venue, on every radio station too, for week after week, this and other songs rang out. The nation partied like never before. The team was full of heroes. Jack was the leader, the boss, the inspiration. Jack Charlton was a heroic Leeds and England footballer, a great man, and a true Irish hero. The memories will never really fade. It all feels as beautiful today as it did then. Thanks Jack.

Republic of Ireland 1 Italy 0

We moved a few doors up Church Street, watching this epic in The Sportsman’s Inn. Almost nine years into Charlton’s reign as Ireland manager, we still had a very strong squad, marvellous players who – whatever about those sometimes tedious reservations about playing style – were brilliantly managed by the eccentric English man. Charlton’s style worked. Ireland had reached the last eight of the European Championships in ’88, the last eight of the World Cup in 1990, now a new adventure awaited. In The Sportsman’s, and in Giants Stadium in New York, it happened again. Ray did it again. More madness. The goal came from nowhere, so it seemed. Houghton’s looping shot, the Italian ‘keeper frozen, stuck in no man’s land. Ireland 1 Mighty Italy 0. Ireland were superb, Paul McGrath in particular. I wrote last week of McGrath’s magnificent defiance of the Italians, in the most celebrated of his many great career performances. Ireland prevailed, going on to qualify for round 2 (last sixteen). More magical memories along the way. In that last sixteen encounter, our great rivals, the Dutch, did us 2-0. Party over. What a party.

We’re all part of Jackie’s Army We’re all off to Italy And we’ll really shake them up When we win The World Cup ‘Cos Ireland are the greatest football team! – From ‘Put ‘Em Under Pressure’, the official song for the Republic of Ireland’s 1990 World Cup campaign

The series so far… 1: Tony Currie & Trevor Brooking 2: Steve Davis, Jimmy White & Ken Doherty 3: Con Houlihan 4: Eamonn Coghlan 5: Bjorn Borg 6: Muhammad Ali 7: Dermot Earley 8: Liam Brady 9: Tony Ward & Ollie Campbell 10: Seve Ballesteros 11: Sonia O’Sullivan 12: George Best 13: Alex Higgins 14: Paul McGrath 15: Jack Charlton For previous columns, see www.roscommonpeople.ie

Roscommon People Friday 17 July 2020

Informed social & cultural discussion of Ireland today

The Conversation continues . . .

The12th Annual Percy French Festival

Time for a French Revue Michael Fitzmaurice TD Jayne Barry

Dr Fáinche Ryan Vincent Pierse

Kevin Myers Michael Banahan

Prof. Patricia Casey Fraiser Hickland

Prof. Ray Kinsella Eileen Coyle

Prof. Gerard Casey David Larkin

Maria Stein Percy French

lectures Poii, Th, and Thoogy: Convaion wih Hannah And D Fáinh Ryan Th Dah of Jonaim Kvin My Py Fnh and h Changing Fa of Iand Pofo Paiia Cay Thi im i ay i diffn: Why w nd o bid an anaiv o Gobaizaion Pofo Ray Kina How F Shod F Sph B? Pofo Gad Cay Th Sad Dmi of h Moda Man Maia Sin Iih Waoo Jayn Bay

er rces Fom Coonyqin o h Coghbin Vinn Pi A Viion of Iand, Sopano & Piano Ein Coy & Fai Hikand A Fnh a Dyan Miha Banahan & Find Wih a Too on h F and a Twidd on h Fidd David Lakin

Castlecoote House, Castlecoote, Co. Roscommon ees 22nd–r 24h jul 2020

PLEASE NOTE Due to Covid-19 restrictions, pre-booking is essential to determine numbers and seating arrangements. Thank you

No tickets will be available on the day

• Who Day €35 with 3 or 4 lectures and afternoon recital • Who Fiva €100 with 10 lectures and 3 afternoon recitals

t  c e t s 090 666 3794 / info@pyfnh.i • www.pyfnh.i

Guided tours of House & Gardens:17th March–31st October (excluding Festival) Daily 2pm –6pm • Afternoon Tea in The Old Ballroom

H E A T I NG